BP has done such a great job of promoting SFR investing to the masses, that those masses have pushed up real estate prices to where it's now DIFFICULT to cashflow right away.Keep going, but understand you won't get rich in real estate overnight - it's a long-term wealth building strategy.For the short-term, recommend joining a few in-person investor meetings if possible, otherwise online ones.

Second piece of advice is to have a trust worthy title company that can guide you.

It sounds like they just sent you to a lender and builder and maybe they got a piece from each?

I hope it didn't come across as I'm promoting fraud.. yes it have.

From what I’ve heard in a piece by Forbes, focusing on unique features can lead to higher long-term rental satisfaction... especially if your tenants want a few animals or more outdoor space.

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

If the property sold for less than $5,000 it's likely a small piece of land that is home to rattlesnakes and other interesting creatures.

Those can be had for 3-5 bucks a piece after summer so easy to replace.Waffle makers.

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? 

Look at what high interest credit cards you can get rid of, pay down, or move to zero interest promotion cards for say 15 months etc.