The closer geographically the better.People always say that appraisals are "half art, half science". 

I generally understood the explanation before hand and again, ignoring property values, interest rates and micro-market climates makes sense because they cloud the math (i.e. - don't sell in a down market, don't refinance into a higher rate, etc.).

However, they could still limit STR use by enforcing existing zoning laws that, for example, might not allow a "commercial operations" like an STR in neighborhoods with specific zoning.This is one of the more detailed explanations I found on the subject.https://canons.sog.unc.edu/202...

Ask the locals their favorite geographic locations to invest, who the players in the area are, recommendations for PM's/Contractors/Realtors/Lenders/etcWhat is drawing you to these markets?

As @Brie Schmidt mentioned, Chicago is a huge market so figure out where your daughter needs to be geographically close to and I am sure there are some neighborhoods around there too.Happy to connect to talk Chicago real estate and help you all anyway I can.

This may be one of the best explanations of how it works that I have ever read!  

Investing out of state has significantly greater risks and challenges than investing in your local or geographical market.

Bryan, thank you so much for the detailed explanation, this is why I love asking here and find people like you.

Another quick cheat method is go to a new build model homes in your area (trends are geographic) they usually have 3 styles of finishes you can choose from, just snap a picture so you can decided latter on your dream home (LOL)I also cruise zillow/ mls for other flip houses in my area and save pictures of the style I like. 

I'm looking for a provider of a list of homeowners based on geographic location.