I would also evaluate where you are at in life in regards to kids?

The regulations in Chicago can be quite overwhelming, so I’m looking forward to exploring the opportunities in this area. 

For my thesis, I'm conducting research into the practices and motivations of small landlords in Ontario to explore how various social and economic factors influence their business strategies, day-to-day property maintenance, and tenant interactions.Could anyone refer me to someone who might be interested in participating?

One thing to explore is Equitable Ownership.

Even with a lower prime rate, the affordability boost is limited if home prices remain elevated and rents don’t increase proportionally.For investors, this might be the time to get creative: value-add strategies, BRRRR, or exploring underserved markets where rents still have room to grow might help improve cash flow potential.

I am getting close to a mental breakdown, just kidding, but I mean dang these tenants are annoying. 

Read our copy & paste advice below on better screening for a PMC.Recommend exploring as many sources as possible to get referrals AND cross-reference them to get as much accurate information as possible.Check out NARPM.com, BP’s Property Manager Finder (BiggerPockets: The Real Estate Investing Social Network), etc.Also, encourage you to learn from the mistakes of others - by reading posts here on BiggerPockets about owners not having their expectations met by their current Property Management Company.

What types of real estate investment strategies are you most excited to explore?

Explore my personal favorites, Set For Life by Scott Trench or The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey, for invaluable financial insights.3.

I'd suggest narrowing down to a few markets to explore, then reaching out to investors in those markets versus throwing a wide net.Cheers!