I would suggest determining if you enjoy every aspect of real estate - finance, contracts, working with people, showing homes, driving locations and doing tours.

You could possibly consider paying a contractor for their "time" and have them come on a property tour with you to give you some ballpark numbers.

John,Actually I know the answer only because I used to be a tour guide many years ago here in Chicago.It dates back to the late 1800's actually right before the World's Fair in 1893.

I served a full tour there for 4 years.

I’ve yet to tour any properties but have detailed expenses, rent roll, leases, repair breakdowns, etc on several places.

I also video tour properties for out of state clients, so they don't need someone around for showings before I'll do that for them.

I recommend you get a buyer's agent and start touring homes that are available on the MLS in neighborhoods that you'd like to live in that fit your budget.

.#2 Explore Lowes and Home Depot to Learn About Material PricingTake a tour through Lowes and Home Depot (or their websites) and look at finishes materials and fixtures that you will consider using in your rehab projects.

i would look for these at scratch and dent stores or look for open box sale at a dept/home store. just make sure everything matches when you buy ityour best bet is to look at photos or tour luxury rentals in your market and emulate what they have.

We discussed the property as we took a tour and he went on to tell me that his repair and maintenance budget is zero.