These are things cash buyers and future home buyers (who will likely finance via banks) are wanting to see proof of even if the surrounding properties aren't presently at their aesthetic best.  

The next steps would be to continue educating yourself through books, podcasts, and surrounding yourself with like-minded investors.

I'm based out of the Chicago market (a newbie) and am trying to get some help in narrowing down neighborhoods to focus on, whether that be within the city limits or the surrounding suburbs.What tools are typical in guiding your decisions to focus from broad areas of search to down to smaller neighborhoods of focus?

I'm based out of the Chicago market (a newbie) and am trying to get some help in narrowing down neighborhoods to focus on, whether that be within the city limits or the surrounding suburbs.What tools are typical in guiding your decisions to focus from broad areas of search to down to smaller neighborhoods of focus?

Any local investors here from surrounding areas? 

I don't collect security deposits because of the major headaches surrounding their handling in Mass, FWIW. 

Can't find any rental property that makes sense on paper in my local surrounding.

Mom didn’t discipline at all, had the surrounding tenants up all hours of the night, and it was a mess!

Looking for modular home site/Land near Clearwater beach Florida or surrounding tourist areas.  

You could also consider some of the surrounding suburbs for better cash flow and lower upfront cost.I prefer investing somewhere I would live myself but that’s just me.Best of luck!