The time for them to negotiate the price was when they got the appraisal done-they didn't, so too bad.Two choices-take the $5K and relist with a new realtor or negotiate with them for the $24K they are short. 

Great choice on using your equity to gain wealth!

It is a bizarre choice for a "headline" photo.3) Kitchen seems to be galley, hard to shoot, but you should consider a result that does not portray a cramped space - which is what I get looking at these.4) wide angle.

For first-time investors, house hacking is the smarter, steadier choice. 

My wife has never had a specific place in mind, so got to do my choice. 

It is your choice to believe it or not and I respect your decision.Just for you, these are the very first properties you see when you search Chicago.

. ~80% tended to be transient and moved on by there choice or ours. ~20% were decent and "stuck". 

I would say anytime you can add value in real estate through taking a distressed property and fixing it up and adding value it is a good choice whether its for investment or primary ownership purposes.

The choice depends on cash flow, diversification, or continued growth.Good Luck!

All the markets you mentioned are solid choices for affordability and long-term growth potential.If you’re looking to narrow it down, consider Indianapolis or Columbia, SC, as both have strong rental demand, landlord-friendly laws, and stable economies.