Most everyone mentioned the weather and appreciation due to the weather making it so desirable to live there. 

Those factors, and others, such as high prices in desirable markets, make finding a solid investment difficult.  

I would anticipate it would depend on the level of detail you desired but it has been my experience that the will do free estimates.

A property near the 606 Trail in Logan Square could command $2,000/month, while the same unit in a less desirable area might rent for $1,300.

.  --- From the zoning code it says, an RM-2 zoned lot can have "1 unit per 2,500 sf. of lot area"If you don't meet that lot size requirement you'll need to make a request for a variance, then post notice about the desired change in front of the building.

Ask questions to find out about their reasons for selling, desired next steps (i.e. relocation, 1031 exchange, etc.), and anything else that is important to them.Ask follow-up questions to dig deeper and learn more (without being too intrusive) then jot down any relevant notes so that you can reference them down the line during your follow-up calls.

Trying to balance proper due diligence against my desire to just acquire a bunch of mediocre units!  

Their target audience are professionals with cash don't don't have the time or desire to become educated and are willing to pay/forgo some revenue for a experienced investment relations firm. 

It also did not have a pool like your property so that would probably lower the desirability as well.

If you are looking to just calculate profitability, set how much profit you want to make then:ARV - Purchase Costs - Holding Costs - Selling Costs - Desired Profit - Rehab Budget (including contingency) = Maximum Allowable OfferIF you cannot calculate those numbers, a spreadsheet isn't going to help you.