Should I just compare to other similar multifamily homes that may be in similar types of areas although not geographically close or focus on homes on the same street with similar Bed bath and square footage that may be single family homes?

there is a duplex that I am looking at. it is good but doesn't meet the 1% rule, it is more of a breakeven deal. it got its pros and cons:pros: -walking distance to a good school- currently renting at the max potential and seems to be updated so not much rehab is neededcons:- on a major street- not much improvements are needed so it will be hard to add value and recoup my initial investment plus it is not really a cashflow maker. 

Lots of shops in the area and they are building a new multifamily down the street.

This is a very popular strategy, @Forrest Faulconer.

This drawing is produced taking into account the information from phase 2 and includes all relevant setbacks for your jurisdiction, zoning, general site dimensions, neighboring properties, street names and other required information as noted by the local jurisdiction.4.

Anywho she believe the units could rent for 750 each it's in a great part or town, near a college, and the vacancy rate for that street is fairly low according to property managers.

pentagon federal, va, and the one in melbourne, fl, popular... cant remember the name..i hear helocs are tight right now 

Our friends did the same type of rehab, C-class area but nice street appeal.

Knows almost every property on and many off market, and every street and neighborhood.

I started looking into Chicago IL because multi-families are quite popular there and its a pretty hot real estate market.However, this would be my first property.