In the meantime, enjoy the free energy they provide?

Be sure to check out the free tools BP provides to help analyze deals you may have and also market insights.

If the building cannot be salvaged,  a lender could still provide financing for land value less demo cost.

I believe there can be great value in paid accountability as it really puts on pressure to perform and can provide you with someone to smack you out of paralysis.

Are there any members in Madison County, Illinois who can provide any guidance on the eviction process, with any tips or lessons learned. 

This provided a substantial return on the initial investment and freed up capital for future projects.Financial Highlights•Acquisition Price: $72,000•Renovation Costs: $35,600•Total Investment: $107,600•Funds: raised from personal savings and private lender•Appraised Value: $160,700•Monthly Rent: $2,150•Cash-Out Refinance: $3,200 after paying off private lender and myself•Rate and Term Refinance: 30 yr amortization, 7.25% interest, 70% LTV•DSCR: 1.45%Here's the breakdown of rental income and expense analysis:1.Annual Gross Income: $25,800 (Monthly rent of $2,150 x 12)2.Annual Expenses: $25,800 * 0.40 = $10,3203.Annual NOI: $25,800 - $10,320 = $15,4804.Annual Debt Service: $10,680 (Calculated previously using a mortgage calculator with a loan of $131,775, 7.25% interest, and a 30-year term)5.DSCR: $15,480 / $10,680 = 1.45 (approximately)With a 40% expense ratio, the DSCR is approximately 1.45.

When renting out furnished rooms, am I obligated to provide the exact furnishings and decor shown in the original listing photos?

It ensures they did a good job and a thorough job, it also provides evidence of the state the house was in when guests arrived in case there are any guest complaints or guest damage.

My belief is that arcade, pool tables, etc. would provide a different experience and might be more likely to rope in the whole family.I initially wanted to bring over my modded PS2 with a bunch of games, but I've heard horror stories about doing that. 

Follow the advice you have been provided by great people and real estate legends below, especially from the likes of @Jonathan Green and @Nathan Gesner and you will buy your first rental property within the next 3 months.Goodluck.