Manufacturing has gone overseas reducing wages. 4.  

We do not raise it to market rents, we keep it at lease 10% below to try and reduce turnover.

The flat fee buyer agency fee reduces the amount of the buyer credit/refund, generally by $6,000 (although options range from $999 to $8999, depending on how much help the buyer wants from the agent).

I'm not familiar with your market, but here are some thoughts:750 Sq ft is small for a 3/1.Interior looks like a flip but it seems like it has been owned by the sellers for a long time...so maybe not.They have been trying to sell this property for 6 months and have reduced price. 

If I were to reduce or take out the vacancy, the 2 would cashflow.

Using a 1031 to upgrade to a two-family could help you reduce or eliminate the $1,000 out-of-pocket expense you’re paying now.Also, condos often come with HOA fees that limit cash flow, so be mindful of their impact.

There will also be many homeowners who have had the properties in the family through generations and own free and clear but now still need to obtain a construction loan to rebuild. 

Just be mindful of the following things when it comes to California.California does not recognize Bonus DepreciationCalifornia does not recognize real estate professional status.Therefore, you can potentially reduce your Federal taxes but not your California taxes.

.✅ Professional Tenant Screening – Property managers have systems in place to screen applicants thoroughly, reducing the risk of bad tenants.✅ Knowledge of Chicago Rental Laws – A good property manager stays up to date on local laws, helping you avoid costly legal mistakes.✅ Maintenance & Repairs Handled – No more emergency calls at 2 AM about a broken water heater!

Some might not be livable at purchase but 5k still seems cheap unless there is something off with the data. maybe the prices were reduced on unlivable properties due to back taxes being part of the deal for the purchase.