However, I soon learned that neighbors weren't thrilled about having a student rental on their street, and I was concerned about the prospect of frequent tenant turnover with students.

I went with the 2nd abatement contractor (basically terminated relationship with 1st contractor paying him way more than he deserved) and was satisfied but not thrilled with the 2nd contractor. 

My wife isn’t thrilled about RE like I am, but she knows the possibilities since I talk about it often.

Anyone willing to a gamble on Englewood being "great again" (within 4-8 years)?...

It is a gamble to say the least.

The Stambovskys were not exactly thrilled to learn about the alleged haunting of their new home and attempted to back out of the sale.

When I saw their application, I was thrilled, then I was disappointed when then told me they need it in two months, which for me was too long.

(and no, my wife wasn't thrilled with being in debt)   We paid back the HELOC a month later so we only paid interest for 1 month.     

I gambled and told them NO---that he owed that amount and I was not willing to settle for less.

I'd be thrilled with this profit.