That is 2 VERY different worlds so they will both have their own unique scope of knowledge.

Don't buy thinking about how great it is but rather what its challenges are going to be.

A high failure rate doesn't necessarily mean the information isn't legitimate - it might just be a challenging business.Maybe a good follow up question would be: Is it fair to lump all Gurus into the "dishonest", "scam", "swindling" category?

What's difficult or challenging right now.

The challenges are offering seller financing to consumers in the post Safe Act environment.

What are the challenges that most people see in their first couple months in real estate?

If you are going to the Parade on Friday, be safe. know there will be a ton of pick pockets so caution is the key word.As to networking, there are a ton of Chicago types on here, and you should hit up a few of the local REI Clubs.Here is a link for come clubs: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-clubs/illinois.htmlEach club has its own unique identity and "vibe" so hit a few and figure out which if not all that work for you.

Any Bank of America employee that challenged these practices was fired.

They look good on paper because they've enjoyed a significant appreciation this past year or two but this is still a challenged area.

Heck, you will be punished enough when the tenant moves out and you need to scrub/paint/rehab the property.Here such a bylaw would likely not stand-up to a constitutional challenge.