The real benefit of using leverage is so that you are not burying your cash in the dirt and can access it when things do go wrong without losing the property.

Texas is, as far as asset protection goes, on par with Delaware and Wyoming.

Hi Adam,The reason I opened a biggerpockets account and then asked this question is so that I don't do anything "unehtical, immoral, and WRONG". 

The MLS of Illinois is not comprehensive as far as NWI is concerned. 

Biggerpockets community is so friendly and a great resource for new and experienced investors alike. 

This can be good but as far as getting things done in a timely manner but in my experience it can also be bad as I feel that I am constantly being stuck with bills for shoddy service/rework.2. 

I am reading several books that seem to be popular/recommended - of course, I believe they were written by the creator of this website, so naturally they would be recommended by this website - and I am trying to decipher whether they are universal principles or things that worked at that particular time for that particular individual.As far as @Henry Clark 's suggestion that I narrow my focus to exactly what I can do now - I appreciate that perspective and will not bang my head against the wall about this topic.

Unfortunately, most of the time this happens, the tenants have spent the rent money already and they end up moving:(Just some of the challenges of investing in gentrifying, Class C areas and why proper management is so important to minimize these challenges.

Hiring a manager or building a good team you trust to take of it is so important! 

Quote from @Lor Fara: I live and work in CA, but looking to invest in OH and IN.