Following Up + More details: @carolineOur utilities were also opened using an LLC but since the power had actually been shut off the problem mostly came from ICE sending someone out to turn it back on plus installing a new style meter (which had to be approved by our HOA but that was another matter entirely and not particularly difficult).Opening a bank account with BCR as an individual is easy and you can get an atm card in about 3 days but you will be limited to holding only a thousand dollars in it.

I'm looking for something that meets the 1% rule in a B or A class neighborhood."

They are often located in desirable neighborhoods and are close to good schools.

If you approached them in a way that you had a solution to the eyesore in their neighborhood they would be very receptive to talk and perhaps share contact details about the home owners son if they have them.

I do not know the OP nor her teaching style, her techniques or capabilities.

What neighborhood of Chicago and how large are the buildings?

Every Market (Detroit) has a series of Micro-markets (neighborhoods) of which they are all different in cost, value, cash flow, rents, etc... 

I’ve had to widen my search radius to smaller suburbs or target properties needing light cosmetic work to make the numbers work.Value-add opportunities: Adding amenities tenants love, like finished basements or upgraded kitchens, seems to justify rent premiums in this market.Navigating the competition:Be creative with financing: Seller financing or partnering with other investors has been helpful to secure deals when conventional offers didn’t cut it.Work with local agents and wholesalers: They often have their finger on the pulse of off-market opportunities, which is critical in a hot market.For those new to suburban Chicago investing, I’d say the key is finding the “sweet spot” neighborhoods—ones on the rise but not yet maxed out in price.

.🎯 Your 6-Month Timeline:Month 1: Foundation (5-7 hours/week)Morning routine: 1 hour daily market researchEvening routine: Deal analysis practiceWeekend: BP forums & networkingKey Goal: Analyze 10 deals on paperMonth 2: Education (8-10 hours/week)Complete 1 RE courseJoin 2 local REI groupsSchedule lunch breaks with agentsKey Goal: Build your initial power team listMonth 3: Systems (10-12 hours/week)Set up deal tracking systemCreate document templatesEstablish banking relationshipsKey Goal: Ready to make offersMonth 4: Lead Generation (12-15 hours/week)Drive neighborhoods after workWeekend open housesSetup automated MLS alertsKey Goal: Generate first 5 qualified leadsNow, the Owners and Brokers you deal with may not enjoy this, but you can certainly "practice" making offers.  

Congrats on your lot purchase in an awesome Chicago neighborhood like Humboldt Park.