I haven't found many by searching so hopefully someone has these keywords set up!

The forums are a great place to read about whats going on in your local market as well as read up on topics of interest.I'd recommend setting up keyword alerts to receive notifications anytime a topic/area of interest in mentioned.I would also take some time to complete your BP profile.

Then people with the right keywords will respond. 

So I'm focusing on keywords like how much I put down for down-payment.

It's great to have you here.Here are some recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: http://www.biggerpockets.com/m...Set up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/a...Read Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/r...Check out BP Money Podcast: https://www.biggerpockets.com/..Wishing you the best!

So I can only go directly to mentions or keyword posts. 

The key word there...

I found this thread due to Georgia being one of my keywords and have been reading through it for the last couple of days as time allowed.

If you don't have keywords setup already consider doing that under the bell on the upper right corner of the task bar.Chicago is massive and like most metropolitan areas it has BOTH appreciation and cash flow. 

Set up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertBest of luck on your REI journey.