I am worried that what I don’t know could result in citations in the future, and I would hate for that to be because I was ignorant of the rules. some recent bits I have recovered through asking around the past few months:-Chicago compliant exit signs must be steel (and obviously overpriced)-an electrician told me that storefronts are required to have a 110v outlet on the ceiling near the storefront window (for window lights I guess??).

And with actively managed properties you are often dealing with other financial risks like vacancy, huge unexpected repair bills, etc.

If you are paying off the credit cards by insuring every new purchase + accrued interest + at least the calculated minimum is made on time every month, you'll preserve your FICO, and build up cash reserves for unexpected crap that would otherwise just go right back on the card statement.Once the cards are paid off in full, NEVER run a balance on them again. 

It's a little scary to me to have a place that was worth less than what we owed on it, but we knew even if we were unexpectedly transferred it would rent for more than our mortgage payment was, so we were okay. 

Having some reserves for unexpected problems is also crucial for you not to fall unto the mistakes many tend to experience.

Not unexpected but something to take note of.

Before you close make sure you get an inspection done, have proper financing in place, make sure your math is done correctly to ensure you will have a steady profit, have money set aside for unexpected costs, read over some state specific landlord - tenant laws, and familiarize yourself with the operating expenses for the property. 

We believe this area is still not ready for STRs but the convention center and shopping outlets are close by. 

This was not wholly unexpected with the Consumer Price Index release for May 2022 showing a 8.6% year over year increase.

The main thing with using your primary is that you'll want to ensure it's a "can't miss" deal, and that you have ample reserves should something unexpected happen.