Hard money is a pretty common loan type for BRRRs or flips, it is handy to start. 

Information including but not limited to: - Median Sale prices for different property types (SFR, MFR, Condo/HOA, etc.)- Average days on market- Absorption rate- Historical data on rents and sale prices in the area- Population growth- Main economic drivers (industries, individual companies, etc.)- Crime stats... if you know specific zip codes/submarkets that you'd like to target, the best data will come from local precincts. - and more..I'd recommend remaining active not only here on BiggerPockets, but in other valuable RE investment networks that you can find - i.e. local meetups (meetup.com, eventbrite, BP local events). 

There was never a chance to actually win a car or the trip but rather enjoy the David Goggins types telling me that I'm being lazy loser, get your act together, become the best version of yourself!

But I do know our city needs a lot more of the first type. 

Do you think it will affect the types of deals they pursue, or will the demand for flexible financing options like private lending continue to grow regardless?

This means that sometimes the insurance will be higher than you would think it would be or need to be but be warned; insurance is a "get what you pay for" type of transaction.

Does anyone know any type of real estate meet ups that are happening in Chicago in the month of January?

I do see many investors incorporating a similar strategy with new construction builds, heavy rehabs, or in instances where the property was bought far below market value (usually a wholesale type transaction).

@Vidit Maini You might want to be more specific regarding what type, if business you want to start.

JUST HERE TO GIVE A QUICK RECAP OF MY 2024 SO I CAN SOMEDAY LOOK BACK AND LAUGH HOW THIS YEAR WAS A NIGHTMARE AND PRODUCTIVE ALL IN ONE LOL FUNNY ENOUGH THE YEAR STARTED ON A GREAT NOTE I WAS ABLE TO GET INTO MY FIRST FIX & FLIP  DEAL  WITH MY WIFE!!