I would recommend to partner up with an experienced investor to really solidify your numbers.

Quote from @Chris Seveney: For those experienced in private lending: This question was posed to me in my membership group from an investor:What strategies have been most effective for scaling your loan volume to $5M+ per month?

I am a moderately experienced RE investor looking for advice on investing in high-equity growth opportunities. 

The real estate community is full of experienced investors happy to share their knowledge.

What you CAN do is partner up with someone experienced and split the deal.

Tenants will push and try to get everything they can from their landlord.Seems you've done everything possible to be reasonable, yet the tenant is not satisified and wants more.As already stated, you are too much of a pushover, so the tenant is seeing how much farther they can push you.Highly advise you to find an experienced residential landlord-tenant attorney ASAP.

Like calling @Stuart Udis out.. who I know for a fact is a very experienced developer and just happens to be an attorney.. 

Expert GuidanceThe most obvious advantage of joining a coaching program is access to experienced mentors.

I've just heard that from many people over the years.In general, SC is experiencing an economic renaissance, so it is a good time to invest here. 

With your maintenance and construction background, you'll definitely have a leg up in creating value, whether you go with a smaller home or a multi-unit property.If you're exploring seller financing and deal structuring, connecting with experienced investors here in Chicago will be a game changer.