These can sometimes offer better cash flow, especially if you’re in a family-friendly area with unique features like extra square footage, an ADU, or flexible layouts.

There will be some extra costs if you're offering snow removal.

I identified a nice cabin in a nice area that I was going to offer $500k to STR it.

I would buy from a brand that is offering 1.9% financing like Hyduai.

I think one of them offers a public API.Once you get your license, you can join the CAR Chicago Association of Realtors and I have found them to be extremely helpful with questions like this. 

Keep in mind the brokerage that just offers low desk fees and a nice office doesn't have a direct correlation to the training you will receive and value you will get for the cap you are paying.

I aim to allocate a small amount of funds toward a Roth IRA and a high-yield savings account (HYSA).My current job offers limited opportunities for overtime, so I’m exploring side work related to real estate, such as part-time property management or similar roles.

If you put in an offer at 85% of list price on every decent home on mls in your targeted area, you're going to get a house or two that should only need cosmetic rehab - which you could control the costs better.  

Quote from @Lolo Druff: Just like turn signals, you should always trust, but verify that the seller is telling the truth.Your offer to purchase should include a requirement that the Seller provide all documentation and agree to sign an estoppel certificate (also called an estoppel form or agreement).

The home also had a small lien.Listened, offered a solution and everyone walked away happy.