Are there specific tools, presentations, or approaches that help them feel more confident in taking that first step?

My goal is to build a data-driven tool that provides actionable insights into which neighborhoods and property types are in the highest demand, based on metrics like:Time on market: How quickly rentals are being leased.Property characteristics: Bedrooms, bathrooms, size, and amenities.Pricing trends: Rental rates relative to market demand and property features.Visual quality: Leveraging property photos to analyze the style and condition of rentals that perform well.The tool will allow users to:Pinpoint areas with the fastest rental turnovers.Understand what types of properties (size, price range, features) rent the quickest.Gain deeper insights into property presentation and amenities that correlate with high demand.Thank you in advance for your feedback.

.✅ Hands-On Experience – If you plan to grow your real estate portfolio, managing tenants yourself can teach you valuable lessons about leases, maintenance, and local rental laws.✅ More Control – You’ll personally handle tenant screening, rent collection, and property upkeep, ensuring everything is done to your standards.✅ Stronger Tenant Relationships – Being involved directly allows you to build rapport with your tenants, which can lead to better communication and longer leases.Cons of Self-Managing❌ Time-Consuming – Dealing with maintenance requests, late-night emergencies, and tenant disputes can quickly become a second job.❌ Legal Risks – Chicago has strict landlord-tenant laws.

Paying cash is safe and admirable, but it totally takes away this strongest tool of real estate investing.If I asked you if you could figure out a way to earn a higher rate of return than 7%, then you should be pulling equity out and rolling it into another.

I'm wondering what tools and resources you all use as rental owners and investors to get or keep your financial ducks in a row?

The Long-Term Benefits of Working with a BrokerA good mortgage broker isn’t just a one-time resource—they become a valuable partner in your investment journey.

Reverse Mortgages (HECM or Home Equity Conversion Mortgage) can be a FANTASTIC tool! 

Are there any apps or tools that you find particularly helpful?

Real feedback will also help me create valuable content and resources.For example, many investors struggle with knowing which amenities to splurge on for max ROI.

These qualities are far more valuable than the numbers in your bank account.7.Set clear goals.