@Jacqueline Wright  Every auction is different so the first items to check: do they allow financing if you win the auction? 

It’s a win-win situation for both parties.4o

Based on your post, it's probably best for you to simply not invest in Cook County for your own peace of mind.Sure, any tenant could stop paying rent and that risk is never zero.

Over the years, I’ve learned that offering tiered returns can be a win-win strategy—it rewards investors for their level of commitment while helping us maintain flexibility in our business.

If you have any tips, resources, or advice for someone just starting out, I’d greatly appreciate your insights.Some specific things I’m working on right now:Building a strong buyers list.Identifying motivated sellers and honing my outreach.Learning the ins and outs of structuring win-win deals.I’m open to partnering, collaborating, or just grabbing coffee to exchange ideas.

I’m excited to network and create win-win opportunities.

If you really like the place but you feel that it is priced too high for your budget, instead of saying “it’s priced too high” and insulting the seller, simply say “I absolutely love your place; it is exactly what I want, and I’d really like to buy it.

A true win-win I realize this is biggerpockets so we’re all supposed to act like real estate is the most amazing investment class on the planet.

Warehouse space for the win....right now....just wait until AI machines are efficient and need half the space.

I do generally agree with the sentiment of Austin and the other hosts that fundamentals will always win out in the long run, and this by nature is a long term industry, even the sales side I'm learning.