However, you'll likely be able to put more money in your pocket if your reducing your living expenses in a HCOL area.

I’m no longer house hacking, and all three units are rented out, generating a total of $8,200/month in rental income.

I'm quite new as an investor, but with three books by Biggerpockets authors under my belt and plenty of enthusiasm, I'm ready to keep learning and to connect with like-minded people in my area and beyond.

By managing yourself, you keep that money in your pocket.✅ 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 they're doing anything another tenant would complain about I send them a written warning and the minute another tenant complains is when I'll double check to see if I can file eviction for that specific thing and give the tenant three days to knock it off. 

@Franklin Marquette Welcome to the Bigger Pockets community. 

Can't believe I've been reading Rich Dad books for years before ever hearing about Bigger Pockets via David Greene books (BRRRR and Long-Distance RE Investing).

Try interviewing at least three managers.1.

No wonder he is disliked on Bigger Pockets.  

You are off to a good start being on Bigger Pockets.