My primary goal was, after years of investing in syndications and funds (since I live in Europe), to pick a new market in the US and start buying rental properties directly again.

Im located in the DC, Maryland, Virginia (DMV) area and I just pocketed a good chunk of money from my first build and sale and already have my next target picked.

Pick a color or pattern that hides things well.Knobs/pulls: look for something that can't catch on clothing.Paint: avoid bold, dark colors.

I would love to meet up with active Real Estate Investors in the Chicagoland area/surrounding suburbs to pick your brain a bit, possibly shadow you on day-to-day activities, and see how to successfully go about beginning on this path to wealth through Real Estate. 

That is a pretty good pick up. 

This is one spot where picking up the phone and calling people works very well.

Near the university, the University Mall area is a smart pick with its consistent demand driven by university students and staff, boosted by redevelopment projects.

You can also network at investor groups and pick up business.It's the time-proven method.

I want as many people as possibly applying so I can pick the best one.List the unit with your minimum requirements.Show the place and reiterate those requirements. 

OOS investing is a lot harder than advertised.if you pick a local or local-ish market you can spend time in it, walk properties, go to REIA meetings, build a network.