Any quack on the internet gives out ESA for a couple hundred bucks and landlords left and right are accepting animals they do not have to accept.As I said though, there are some ESA that are actually real, but still not protected and then it's a landlord decision.

Do you need all this for a couple of rentals?

I always recommend attending a few local investor meetups if you're looking to connect with more investors in your area.

When BRRRR was really popularized rates were very low so the holding costs were much better.There are a lot of local real estate investing meetups that you guys can attend.

He bases the loan off of owned properties and the properties you bought in the last couple of years.

Listening to podcasts and attending local meetups/conferences is a great way to meet others and learn more about RE.

I know a couple of chicago eviction attorneys who might be able to help, they also do work in dupage County.

Do you need all this for a couple of rentals?

I recommend finding local meetups to attend. https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/521 I have found all of my best connections at local meetups.

Additionally, as long as you put 20% down, it typically keeps you safe in terms of cash flow, and then you simply have a couple dozen houses with tenants paying off your mortgages.