I went from barely breaking even to walking away with a very comfortable profit.This experience taught me two critical lessons:Never give up when the situation looks bleak.

If I ever have specific questions, I look through google and then use the BP forums as another source.

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.

The returns will likely be greater if you source the borrower and originate on behalf of the IRA.

They can be great referral sources for responsible student tenants.Best of luck with your first property!

Hey @Mordechai Chaimovitz - It sounds like you are talking about Chicago's NW side because there are definitely tons of areas in Chicago where a 2 flat can cashflow well.I know for me buying on the nw side was critical to my personal well-being and life happiness. 

Yelp is a good source because it lets you read reviews of actual customers.

Absolutely, I am taking great pride this year in making content that is not microwaved from sourcing a few google articles that "gurus" just reguritate.

Great to meet you.We source from four primary suppliers: Lowe's, Home Depot, Floor & Decor, and Amazon.

Can anyone recommend sources for contact information for property owners?