Leverage - someone mentioned Real Estate doesn't beat stock market returns and while that might be true in absolute terms, it's definitely beat the market when you consider leverage.

Second, this is definitely the highlight reel.

Now that Kaaren has mentioned a self-directed HSA I think I'll definitely look at that in the future, there's not quite enough saved up in there yet to make sense to invest in truly alternative assets but at some point maybe!

We definitely should connect.

The definition of poor initial cash flow has changed with time.  

Hey @Mordechai Chaimovitz - It sounds like you are talking about Chicago's NW side because there are definitely tons of areas in Chicago where a 2 flat can cashflow well.I know for me buying on the nw side was critical to my personal well-being and life happiness. 

There are definitely risks that will be completely outside of the auction house.

Also, having a rehab budget already laid out with explanations on how you got the numbers would help and is definitely a plus when I look at deals even though I typically wont use their numbers it at least shows a little more effort. 

The ones who bought cheaper properties trying to fix up had mixed results with one getting hustled by a contractor and definitely going into the red.

I've also taken some of Justin Kivel's courses on Udemy, they're definitely worth a look.