I have seen real state passed two or three generations with no probate and no deeds filed.

We bought the house three years ago because it was closer to our kids' private school, but it coincidentally had a rental suite.  

I started real estate investing about three years ago and I focus on the Sterling area in Virginia.

My idea is to buy a property every three years and create a pasive income structure for me and my family, any sugestions?

Netflix stock...I think three buck range then compared to 120 something now....if I got in the Delorean I would not be greedy, just pick up 10k shares or so......

Three units.

Your time here will be well spent.Since you expressed an interest in rentals, I added three links below for your review.https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2015/03/27/financing-options-rental-property-guide/ (financing options for rentals)http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/01/04/how-to-rent-your-house/ (house rental guide)http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/02/22/buying-rental-property/ (how to buy a rental property)Now that you have made the move, below are some links that will help with the navigation of the site. http://www.biggerpockets.com/startherehttp://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSetting up Keyword AlertsHow to Use @Mentions on BiggerPocketshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/ruleshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/inviteshttps://www.udemy.com/biggerpockets-real-estate-investing-course/ (video with 64 lectures and approx 6hrs of material)https://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investing (Ultimate beginner's guide to REI)Before your 1st purchase, please ensure you visit the below link for some tips.https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2014/12/19/real-estate-investing-success-smart-tips/REI books suggested by BPershttps://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2015/11/13/7-real-estate-books-beginner-investors/ (7 absolute must read books for beginner REIs)http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/04/14/best-real-estate-books/?

The house is 3bd 2bath. 1800sqft. it is in kind of a weird place as it sits in a row of about three houses between two large apartment complexes on a side street. 

I was in your place three years ago.

The stair faces the yard, and it's not within 6' of an adjacent property.I found the code section.CHICAGO CODES 13-200-260 Porches and Decks Existing porches and decks may be repaired or replaced in the same location with construction of the same type as that of the existing porch or deck. (1) Existing porches not exceeding three stories in height may be extended up one story to the roof level regardless of their location with respect to the lot line or other buildings on the same lot, if in conformance with the Zoning Ordinance. (2) Existing porches may be enclosed, regardless of their location with respect to the lot line or other buildings on the same lot, if construction requirements of Chapter 13-60 are met.