Here’s a breakdown to help you navigate your first deal, incorporating advanced strategies, including 1031 exchanges, to attract a broader range of investors.Neighborhood Recommendations: Chicago offers a diverse range of neighborhoods for different investment goals:Wicker Park & West Town: These areas are known for their strong rental demand among young professionals and offer good potential for cash flow.Lake View: Ideal for attracting tenants who want to be close to downtown while enjoying local amenities.The Loop: A prime location for high-income renters, making it an attractive option if you’re planning to house hack and generate a steady stream of rental income.Property Types: Opt for properties that align with your investment goals.

Also hearing better than market results from those who are self managing as consumers continue to buck excessive fees by seeking to book direct.  

As you said, they show up, answer questions about the local market, provide useful data when needed, and just are a general value add to the forums.I think it's fair for consumers to take what an agent says about the market with a grain of salt, but over time, their reputation for giving good info without the smarm wins.

They recently did their first 721 and I think about 85% of investors opted to go into the REIT.

Dont tell your HML that you plan to occupy the property as HMLs cannot be done on occupied properties due to all the consumer protection laws in place. 

Offering it as an 'opt-in' program is a great idea.

Now how about we work together you say when you opted into a forum that had nothing to do with you.

Although time consuming, I'm guessing that evaluating their condition periodically would help with the end of lease turnover cycle? 

If you receive payment through zillow, it reports on time rent payments to expedia, renters have to opt out if they don't want it.

Obviously with the opportunity to opt out.