But what do people think of this offering? 

Areas like Pilsen, Bronzeville, and parts of the South and West Sides offer opportunities for value-add investments, while North Side neighborhoods provide more stability but at higher prices. 

I told the couple that I got an offer for $1,700 but wanted to ultimately rent to them but need the income.

I really like that Stessa and Baselane offer high earning interest accounts and physical debit cards and sounds like Stessa offers checks.

You might want to check out listings in your neighborhood to get an idea of the going rates and what amenities other hosts are offering.

I recommend having a contractor walk through the property before submitting your offer, or you could make your offer contingent on a contractor walkthrough.

This will help you close deals faster.Focus on marketing and lead generation to find motivated sellers—direct mail, driving for dollars, and online marketing all work well here.Know your numbers—being able to accurately assess the value of properties and make solid offers is key.Network with other investors and professionals—attend local REI meetups, connect with title companies, and build relationships with hard money lenders.Feel free to reach out if you ever want to chat more or exchange ideas!

However, many sellers will not accept an offer subject to an appraisal. 

But to the point of this thread, no one can offer a "this is a good return" without knowing the structure and the potential risks involved.I think Jaycee hits on the general returns available in the market. 

However, the tax treatment differs between short-term and long-term rentals:Short-Term Rentals (STRs): If you materially participate (work 100+ hours and more than anyone else on the property), you may be able to offset rental deductions against W-2 or other active income, offering greater tax benefits.Long-Term Rentals (LTRs): If your AGI exceeds $100K, your rental losses may be limited, unless you qualify as a Real Estate Professional (REPS).If you plan to expand your rental portfolio, consider an LLC later for liability protection and easier management.