However, if you're leaning more toward **purely investment properties** and have the flexibility to dive into the numbers, I would recommend looking at the **South Side of Chicago**.

BiggerPockets also has a calculator to analyze deals, and I highly recommend you start this as soon as possible, even if you are not ready to buy.

Do you recommend sticking with aluminum trim if I were to refinish wood?

+1 for AirDNA - I recommend using one of their premium monthly subscriptions to explore the actual comps and not just their auto generated projection. 

@Matthew McleanBigger Pockets is a great place to find an accountant specializing in real estate taxation.A good real estate accountant can save you thousands of dollars by leveraging entity selection and formation, tax deductions, cost segregations, bonus depreciation and tax planning.I recommend finding an accountant specializing in real estate taxation, business taxation, financial planning and tax planning.Consider working with your accountant remotely to expand your options.I would also recommend looking for an accountant willing to work with you throughout the year.

Any insights, experiences, or recommendations would be greatly appreciated. 

I strongly recommend reviewing your PMA.

DSCR Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

I'm curious why those areas aren't recommended in the forum.

We always recommend starting local when possible.