Therefore, I am not sure what's feasible in regards to 1) finding an affordable multi-family out that way and 2) what the unofficial neighborhood ratings would be out that way.I'd appreciate any advice as I consider my options, and a referral or two wouldn't hurt as well.Thanks,Phil

Chicago's lawn offers a variety of options, including residential areas with good amenities.

Are single family’s an option ?

Don't use it as a long term financing option.

It's a great way to get a foot in the door and it provides more lending options as well if you owner-occupy.

We are supposedly getting that option at the end of this month.

I recently came across this "FHA construction to permanent Loan" option which seems almost too good to be true, so I wanted to get some input on how this works and where I might be able to find a lender.

I meant not to live on but solely to withdraw, pay the tax and invest in RE.I am trying to decide if I should draw out everything from tax deferred retirement account, pay the tax and invest in RE (move into Roth as another option)before I hit RMD point.Hoping to hear from those who have walked the walk and share actual experience of their success/roadblocks. 

I don't know anyone there personally doing it like we do, but it's something to consider.The other option, of course, is to just try and bump up your expected monthly cost from 10% to something like 12% - 15%.

Is there any other options I can use?