I believe they changed the guidelines years ago on the amount of seller assist you can receive on an FHA loan, so I’d look into that with your mortgage company before making an offer, but definitely use that to your advantage when writing an offer!

Focus on building a network of contractors for repairs, set clear boundaries for house hacking, and take advantage of tax benefits.

Plus, living in the property gives you the unique advantage of understanding it inside and out.. making you a better landlord when you eventually rent out all the units.If I were you, I’d prioritize properties with room for rent increases or small upgrades that could boost value.

This would be primarily due to your competitive advantage of living in Chicago and knowing the market.

North OC are my stomping grounds so if I’d love to hear its advantages over LB/Riverside. 

This is a great place to learn and to connect with people so take advantage of all the great resources.Welcome aboard and best of luck investing!

Sounds like you're taking advantage of your favorable VA loan options smartly too.Good work - can't wait to hear about your next deal!

Obviously right now is a lower valuation, but there is always ways to take advantage of the currency spread. 

If so, that's your prime market to start in because you have a competitive advantage of boots on the ground you trust of personal knowledge.If I were you, and new, I would not do fixers, I would buy turnkey or rent-ready properties or you are going to have to trust a whole lot more people to do what you want to be done.

If you’re getting the property for significantly under market, this strategy can still be advantageous and everyone wins, good luck.