I highly recommend reading the BP books for self-education and house hacking a 2-4 unit property for your first deal.

Educate yourself on the local market, network with other investors and agents, and always have a solid plan in place before making any investments.

EDUCATE YOURSELF - yes, it will take time, but will lead to a selection that better meets your expectations & avoids potentially costly surprises!

Education, financial stability, strategy definition, team building, and thorough property search are essential.

We do sight unseen frequently.

I am currently looking into becoming an agent but I don't want to wait the amount of time it requires to obtain the education to purchase a home.  

Also you may know me for my educational events and mentoring programs and as I  have mentored some of the most successful apartment syndicators out there... 

Fix the crime and education problem and the free market will solve the rest ."

Hey @Jimmy JarjourIt sounds like you are crushing the education game.

When you surround yourself with a great team, are well-educated, and use data to make your decisions, your odds of a significant issue are VERY LOW.Continue to network with the awesome community here in Chicago, and you will stay on the right path.