I can tell you this.He is very good at what he does in his own investing businessHe is an excellent teacher with great "courseware"In a sea of sharks, he is unusual in that he is an honest man with a true interest in helping you become successful.

Do not try anything unusual.  

Everyone around me are rushing to buy million dollar homes for "deductions" because not unusual a typical couples here clear $300k.

Unless there is something unusual, like refinancing a first mortgage while leaving a HELOC in place.Can you try to explain again what you're asking?

His situation was unusual, but if it didn't happen, he wouldn't have been able to teach millions of people about personal finance.

Coupled with annual tax hikes and the gang wars on the west and south sides, it seems the future of Chicago is highly uncertain at best.  

I am just uncertain of the this would factor into the equation from a lender's standpoint.I am just fishing for ideas and opportunities and thank all of you so much for time and wealth of knowledge.

And this is definitely impacted by my view of Vallejo.To be honest, the high and potentially uncertain property taxes, coupled with the less-than-great public schools, and longer commute to most employment centers (unless you drop $300/mo on the ferry) gives Vallejo some headwinds on long-term appreciation IMHO.

If this is an unusual property type in the area and the stores are empty would it be feasible to change the zoning with the town and say change the stores into residential units?

If they are not using CSS the listing agent can send the buyer's agent an email asking for feedback.It is highly unusual for the listing agent to attend a showing for a buyer who is not his own client.