You could also try turning it over to a collections agency. 

When buying a property do you offer dual agency to the listing agent, represent yourself and take the commission, or waive the commission as a bargaining tool?

@Brittany Alkire depending on the number of units and market, that should be possible.On larger properties, the agencies want to see 6-12 months of NOI and occupancy around 90%+.Have you considered a Small Bal loan from Fannie/Freddie?

Guaranteed rent payments, annual (or more often) inspections by the agency, constant pool of motivated tenants.

I would mention that you'll be filing a complaint with the state regulatory agency that oversees realtors in Illinois.

However I feel like finding an undervalued house in distress where it’s been on MLS for sometime may be a better start for me as I can follow the dual agency strategy and also connect with agents and fully understand their market more and maybe even get deals off them in the future

Does someone have any great recommendations of a wonderful agent or agencies in Grand Rapids, MI or west MI area?

Also, you eventually will run out of agency debt loans on SFRs, so at this point there is less reason to buy in your personal name. 

I am an IT contractor, I get paid via an agency company as a W2 employee.

I would recommend that you call Consolidated Insurance in Knoxville or Bullard Agency in Morristown.