I still attend local meet ups and talk to dozens of investors and am considering other strategies like Mid-Term Rentals or rent by the room. 

There are people located all over who could help you locally. 

I'm curious as to how this has affected everyone's local market.

.✅ Hands-On Experience – If you plan to grow your real estate portfolio, managing tenants yourself can teach you valuable lessons about leases, maintenance, and local rental laws.✅ More Control – You’ll personally handle tenant screening, rent collection, and property upkeep, ensuring everything is done to your standards.✅ Stronger Tenant Relationships – Being involved directly allows you to build rapport with your tenants, which can lead to better communication and longer leases.Cons of Self-Managing❌ Time-Consuming – Dealing with maintenance requests, late-night emergencies, and tenant disputes can quickly become a second job.❌ Legal Risks – Chicago has strict landlord-tenant laws.

I found a 4 BR home next to local hospital. 

6) Finding a lease that complies with all federal, state and local requirements7) Figuring out how to accept rental payments - most Class A tenants won't want to mail you a check.

I don't want to name names, but I use a major US financial institution for my banking.

We've worked with local banks and been able to finance the three we own without any issues.I don't necessarily know if it's "beginner" investor friendly but you'll learn everything you need in the bootcamp which is the gold standardWe get loans with 3-7 year balloons and 25 year amortization typically

However, due to high property costs in our local market, we have been exploring opportunities in more affordable states, including Texas, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Ohio.

Clear Title. 20+ years as local Real Estate Broker.