I am really interested in meeting any in-person groups in Boston (now-May) and Chicago (September-Onwards).

Whether the seller was open to a buyer commission or not, I wouldn't put an additional cost into any personal purchase.  

While the property's location was desirable, it was evident that the house had been neglected for several years.

Congratulations on the duplex -My investor clients have acquired several multi-family investment properties locally in the market I operate in Northwest Indiana - Figure out your personal investment objective for the next 4 years and align yourself with the next property that make sense in this current market environment-

I only spoke with one person so far and they scheduled for more information gathering/ rental investment calls from them this upcoming week.

@Keegan Felix Can empathize with your desire to invest in the dream!

For Example:  All Blue houses make more money.Lots of times, I tell people not to trust me, since my topics can be vetted, plus I don't know their personal situations.Just surprised that people on the Forum don't have more Podcast visits referenced in their bylines. 

The interest rate on a HELOC or Heloan may be better than the personal loan. 

Highly suggest coming out to some of the local chicago IN-PERSON meetups! 

He personally screened every tenant, handled every maintenance request, and even showed up to mow the lawn at his properties when the landscapers were running late.His phone rang constantly—contractors, tenants, vendors—all needing his immediate attention.