@Brandon Dixon starting out by passively investing in apartment syndications is a great approach, especially if you have a full-time job.

Clear opportunity for improvement How did you find this deal and how did you negotiate it?

Are you looking to make being a chicago real estate agent your full time job or just a side gig while continuing to work full time? 

I bought an outdated condo, planning to do a cosmetic rehab later when I had more budget.I moved out of the condo in mid-2024 for a job, and by September, my tenant noticed mice droppings.

From experience, I’d recommend getting pre-approved, improving your debt-to-income ratio if needed, and researching local assistance programs.

and if you're busy with your full time job it's even harder.

Would you be taking any pay loss from the job switch? 

They may sell in a few years when interest rates drop or keep it longer term as cash flow on the property improves!

So I get this referral from a relative about a tenant who has good credit score, no criminal history, and a good paying job.

There’s huge retal income potential if you nail that balance between improvements that wow tenants and improvements that merely look fancy but don’t justify higher rents.I’d also keep an eye on how your high end plan fits the local demand.