Wanted to revive this post and check to see if anyone else has additional information or input on rental in Cahokia, IL / Cahokia Heights, IL . . .

Down payment should be about the same (20% on a buy-and-hold) but you'll see an additional $3-$6k on average in CC and the ability to keep it off of your DTI/Personal credit along with hopefully no more hard inquiries on your credit (many lenders will accept/perform a soft pull).

Finished basement as well with additional room (and has the additional bathroom). 

A new member shouldn't be up sold the site's products when they are just asking for general advice from the forum; not what books to buy from BP. 

I couldn't find anything too specific on the site.

Hire an inspector /independent person to manage the job site for you, someone with your best interest at heart.

It seems like there are additional obstacles to success for me since I'll have to do pretty much everything remotely, but an expression that I like, and I'm paraphrasing here, "If the path you're on seems easy, you're on the wrong path"Would love any and all advice, guidance, comments, warnings or whatever else you'd like to share.

Before I jump into the cash required to operate which isn't given enough attention by most investors there are additional fee related questions a borrower should ask any prospective lender: Are the 3 points inclusive of loan doc prep?

Here are a few lessons I learned during the renovation, many of which stemmed from the age of the house and unexpected hidden damages:1.Damaged Plumbing: Several plumbing pipes were ruptured or severely damaged, requiring replacement.2.Termite Infestation: I discovered termites, which led to additional costs for treatment and repairs.3.Rotted Wood: Significant sections of wood in the structure were rotted and had to be replaced.4.Lack of Insulation: There was no insulation in the att Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

Then, take additional distributions quarterly if the business is profitable.