Based on what you have explained here and assuming that all of it is true, than you really only have two options to get it rented1.

I recommend selecting an investment city based on the following criteria.Key Criteria for Choosing an Investment CityRents Must Outpace InflationFinancial freedom depends on rental income growing faster than inflation.

And I'd argue the average rents can be increased nearly 30% based on the current FMRs in the zip code.

Our state licensing department provides the list of licensees for free upon request. 

--> Passive income doesnt mean tax free income.

I would make sure financially you have a good base and then connect with a local agent

Prices a few years ago were based on expectations of (in addition to interest rates staying low): - Then current operating cost assumptions (like insurance cost expectations being flat)- A seeming disregard for record levels of new inventory / supply hitting the market- Extremely high inbound migration expectations which are likely to not be met, due to both natural disasters and the boomerang effect when people from California or the Northeast move to the American South and hate every minute of the humidity, the large and relentless swarm of insects, and the occasional hurricane. 

I was imagining responsible car-free tenants, as I was one myself for a long time. 

House hacking in Chicago can be a game-changer—letting you live for free (or close to it) while building wealth through real estate.

Feel free to ask me any questions—I’m happy to help!