I'd like to understand @Devin James, from the domestic developer mind of things; If there stands a confusion, lack of comprehension on how to address housing compilation in a given region, city, MSA etc., why not look to Europe? 

I will suggest that a seminar that sells training materials only would not have helped me. 

If anyone has any suggestions, that would be greatly appreciated! 

Since you’re committed to staying close to family, I’d suggest focusing on properties that might need a little work but have potential for appreciation in your market.

What do you suggest 

Sounds like it makes sense for you to partner, I would suggest: spell out responsibilities very clearly, how you make decisions and most importantly: have a very clearly spelled out exit. 

I love that you have specific goals for 2025 - I believe if we think it, write it, say it, and share it our goals are 10x more likely to come to fruition.Are you able to do option 2 and just house hack a 2-4 unit building and use a renovation loan which allows you to put down 3.5-5%I highly suggest getting to some local chicago meetup groups (we have an in person one on the 17th)...here is BPs list: https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/521-real-estate-events-...I also have a full list of the chicago meetups that I can share with you too if that'd be helpful.

I would suggest Indy.

Quote from @Monish Anand: Start by looking for personal recommendations from investors in that market, then look on realtor.com or a google search.DO NOT use agents suggested by a website like realtor, Zillow, etc.

The evidence will still stand, and there's enough info in this thread that ANYone can prove for themselves that it does.