I've read a lot of bad information on how some gurus are promoting techniques that are flawed at best, fraud at worst.

If what you said is correct, it definitely makes sense now (how he teaches and does his training - no experience as a personal student of his).It is true and just about every sales person and sponsor they promote is from RE Mentor.

Aside from this forum and the events promoted here, where else would you recommend looking to find connections or events with experienced flippers in Chicago? 

I can't speak for all but every PMc I have seen promoting some really low Tenant Placement fee, also has the rainbow of tie-in revenues, namely maintenance.

Some carriers don't ask but you should make sure that you're not indicating (in the policy application that is typically e-signed) that you aren't using your property for student housing if you are.  

They e-mail me their background check from the hospital, or I have them complete one through tenantbackgroundcheck.com. 

The mega site in Richmond, as well as Mt Vernon, will really change the landscape in these areas as they did in E-town when the battery plant came in play. 

You can't deduct travel expenses before identifying property because you report every rental activity you already own on Schedule E.

No such requirement for improving rental properties and deducting interest on Schedule E. 

Future returns are never, N-E-V-E-R guaranteed.