Here in Chicago, there are some true diamonds in the rough that trade on the MLS.

The properties I picked up looked rough but so do diamonds at first. 45k for three properties 😁.

I always use this analogy: would you tell a beginner skier who has zero experience to ski a double black diamond (the most advanced terrain) for their first run?

If you haven’t already seen it, I recommend checking out the Bigger Pockets Ultimate Beginner’s Guide and the entertaining and informative BP podcasts.There are also offline groups you can attend for in-person networking, like the Rhode Island Real Estate Investor Group in RI or Black Diamond REI in southern Mass.As far as buying investment/income property, have you talked to a mortgage person to see what price range you can reasonably afford?

Many owners don’t want to sell right now because times are good, but with persistence you can find that diamond in the rough.

Another analogy: it's like trying to ski down a double black diamond when you've never been on skis.  

My favorite is the Black Diamond meeting in Waltham (alternates every other month with their Worcester location, next Waltham meeting is May).

He used to be with Brennan, Manna & Diamond but he's since moved to another company and I don't remember the name.

The car I have been driving since 2010 was only $30K...With $61K, I could buy myself either model 3, or a big diamond something....

Every once in a while you find a diamond pop up, but these are rare.