Off-market deals are key if you go this route, so networking is huge.Out-of-state investing is another option people love, especially in markets like PA (Philly, Scranton) or even down south where prices are lower, and the landlord-tenant laws are more forgiving.

I’ve had to widen my search radius to smaller suburbs or target properties needing light cosmetic work to make the numbers work.Value-add opportunities: Adding amenities tenants love, like finished basements or upgraded kitchens, seems to justify rent premiums in this market.Navigating the competition:Be creative with financing: Seller financing or partnering with other investors has been helpful to secure deals when conventional offers didn’t cut it.Work with local agents and wholesalers: They often have their finger on the pulse of off-market opportunities, which is critical in a hot market.For those new to suburban Chicago investing, I’d say the key is finding the “sweet spot” neighborhoods—ones on the rise but not yet maxed out in price.

Demand termination of the contract and transfer all documents, funds, keys, and anything else they have to you or the new PM no later than [DATE].

There's no step by step guide but there are key things : Learn: RE strategies, what interests you, what do people in your area need.Connect: find a mentor, accountability group and be around those doing what you want to do.Help: solve problems- do people need dealflow, property mgmt, construction expertise, etc. 

Meeting critical dates is the key to nailing a successful closing.

Since the payment was deposited into your account on 1/6/2025, it would typically be considered income for 2025, even though the tenant paid it on 12/31/2024.However, if you use cash-basis accounting (which most landlords do), the key factor is when you physically receive the money, not when it was sent or owed.

It’s a great reminder to trust your own due diligence and not let others make critical decisions for you, like hiring a property manager.For future investments, building a trusted team and maintaining direct oversight is key, even with remote deals.

The key is that in order to completely defer all tax you must purchase at least as much as your net sale. 

The key to purchasing more real estate is by focusing on the fundamentals of the real estate.

With fluctuating interest rates, tighter lending criteria, and increased competition for properties, securing the right financing has become a key factor in closing deals and maximizing ROI.Are you exploring creative options like BRRRR, partnerships, or seller financing?