There's a vacant lot down the street from me that has sat for decades and I'll bet the owner just passes it down to their kids. 

You should never even consider starting, based on the risks involved, until you have everything ready.

I’m looking to get involved in the Chicago market once I get a grip on this whole thing a little closer to me, maybe we’ll cross paths in a few years!

PS- feel free to ask me any question you would like regarding FHA 203k or FannieMae Homestyle- I have been involved in over 1000 of them from the lending side over the years and happy to provide you guidance.  

There's usually no emotion involved and we're just trying to get to a meeting of the minds, and I know the buyer's expectations are being managed.

Electrical submetering involves the installation power meters (also called power monitors, electrical meters, or energy monitors) that can measure energy usage after it reaches the primary utility meter.

Your best bets are Bandit Signs/Craigslist/Cold Calling.

Both you and your husband are considered to be "Disqualified Persons" to your (or your husband's) IRA and can't be part of any transaction involving your IRA. 

But i wont bet on that happening. 

I don't have the $ on hand , to pay for the repairs/renovation on it a HML seems like my best and likely only Bet  ?