However, if you are playing the long game then minimal cashflow now is fine as long as the property is appreciating.

If you plan on getting into these markets, I wouldn't expect much cashflow at all but if you are able to weather that in the mid-long term game, I just don't see A class neighborhoods in Chicago going anywhere but up (both value and rent price).These downtown neighborhoods are my bread and butter and I would love to connect with you to talk further about what your plans are and what types of properties you'll be looking for.

It's a numbers game and can vary based on your market and the season.Good luck!

If there was a team that developed an online game where you could simulate real estate investing, crunch numbers, find properties, and sell and lease homes it would be lucrative.

We won't always get lucky on the appreciation game so the emphasis should be on getting a good deal upfront. 

Hi BP fam - looking to get into the game with our first small multi family (2-4 units) rental in the Midwest (Toledo OH, Cincinnati OH, Indianapolis IN, etc). 

I do agree we investors get sick of people asking for criteria, but we also have to remember that we play the numbers game too and the more people we have shopping for us, the better our chances of landing another deal on someone else's efforts!

I’m going to go against the grain and say you should learn how to find an off market deal.The method will depend on budget and preference, but once you realize if you buy good enough deals you don’t need down payments that’s a game changer.  

@Ricardo Gomez - Welcome to BP and congrats for deciding to get into the real estate game. 

The game is to get you to pay for some type of fictional service to initiate the loan process.