My last rental in Crystal Lake was rented in 10 days. 

I think @Crystal Smith may be offering a good perspective on keeping those two classes of properties separate yet using both to grow your portfolio.  

@Crystal Smith Sounds like you have a handle on this. 

@Crystal Smith did you ever find a good Chicago attorney to handle foreclosures from tax deeds?

If you Flippers, buying off Wholesalers, have your own vocabulary based on some grading of standards of Rehab yet to be performed, then I hope those varying valuations also come with a working crystal ball (I've yet to find one).It certainly does NOT surprise me that Flippers are finding it hard to get what I call a "proper deal" from a Wholesaler.

I am buying across the ferry in Crystal Beach. 

Unless you have a crystal ball don't let dreams of the future stop you today.  

what @Crystal Smith said. 2 types of loans and find a good wholesaler and realtor! 

I know you don't have a crystal ball, but what is your opinion of the housing market in 5 yrs??

Absolutely love just walking to everywhere and leaving the car at home after a considerable number of my conscious hours are spent on the road@Crystal Smith , @Brie Schmidt I love Chicago anytime during the spring and summer.