In other words you may charge until challenged and then you may not charge for your time.Legally it is always preferred to use contractors if you intend to bill for time associated with repairs.

I am an electrical designer and I have my LEED Green Associate Credential from USGBC.

Also Bedford is great on the east side as there is no mandatory POS inspection and associated escrow deposit, unlike with Maple and Garfield Heights (also popular for SFR/MFR).Good luck on your journey into real estate!

If you are not paying by cash, get with a Lender to discuss various types of loans that you could qualify for and the conditions associated with them.

The new tenants chose to keep those appliances in place and I added an addendum in their lease that stated they were responsible for any costs associated with maintaining those appliances -- I continued to be responsible for the stove and refrigerator.  

In WA we have CBA (Commercial Brokers Association) which produces leases, PSAs etc. and most people use/accept their docs.Check with with the department of licensing for CA or local trade groups. 

The MLS forms are for entering the property into the MLS and are not related to the actual contract + disclosure forms published by the state Association of Realtors®

Best thing, when you arrive come join the local and very active PIG led by @Matt Robinson to get associated with link minded (and many military) people. 

There are a variety of avenues to stay in real estate and not have the problems associated with being a landlord.

Does anyone have experience or is anyone a part of any of the Chicago-based Real Estate Investor Associations?