So when you need to go check on things, rent units, meet contractors, etc, you're jumping in the car for 6 hours, spending 1hr there, and I'm thinking after a full days's work. 

At that point, it's worth researching and finding a solution that better meets your needs.

I'm unsure if they lend on new builds or not, they do have a website where you can set a virtual meeting with them.https://www.goodfaithfund.com/

Let me know if you'd like to set up a meeting since we are local.

We have education and networking in our monthly meetings.

There are a ton that solely focus on those specific markets. ( they do meet-ups, etc. )WOW, AI?

Hey @Nicholas Hausmann - I can't provide much feedback on Springfield Illinois it self since I am up in Chicago, but it seems like from what everyone is saying it's a solid cash flow market.In general, it sounds like you have a solid plan...I recommend making some trips there to meet some of the local investors.  

thank you i hope to meet tons of people here!

I do a meetup in Gilbert, it is a great way to meet and network with other investors and RE professionals.

If you pay more, you won't meet your metrics and will probably have negative cashflow and/or equity.You may have to make 10, 20 or even 100 offers to get one accepted at the price that meets your numbers.This is what all investors did BEFORE the Great Real Estate Crash of 2008-2010.