What was your initial plan?

I think this calls for another patented day of Mike's Research Plan.

It will be a 3 or 4 unit and planning on doing STR on one as an experiment.

If you buy in a city with limited appreciation, every investment dollar must come from your savings, which is beyond the reach of most investors.Income continuity.

As for financing, focusing on saving while learning is smart, but also take time to research creative strategies.

But, sometimes waiting and stacking cash for another opportunity is the best plan. 

In addition to your down payment, plan for closing costs (around 2-5% of the purchase price) and set aside at least 3-6 months of expenses for repairs, maintenance, and vacancies.

.✅ Hands-On Experience – If you plan to grow your real estate portfolio, managing tenants yourself can teach you valuable lessons about leases, maintenance, and local rental laws.✅ More Control – You’ll personally handle tenant screening, rent collection, and property upkeep, ensuring everything is done to your standards.✅ Stronger Tenant Relationships – Being involved directly allows you to build rapport with your tenants, which can lead to better communication and longer leases.Cons of Self-Managing❌ Time-Consuming – Dealing with maintenance requests, late-night emergencies, and tenant disputes can quickly become a second job.❌ Legal Risks – Chicago has strict landlord-tenant laws.

If you have a great-paying, long-term tenant, a small discount can actually save you money in the long run.

Though in theory, cash flow $10k/mo with out really working sounds appealing.I feel like I will be 65 sooner than later and have zero retirement saved otherwise.