But I would not bet that your STR would not be shut down, as the city started to enforce things and slapping big fines and having the utility companies turn off power and water to properties that were found to be in violation of the STR rental rules. 

@David S.Based on what you wrote, probably syndication deals are your best bet.

I think some of the folks in Maine are making a bet on appreciation.

There is no real way around it other than to contact the seller directly through some type of channel and direct mail is usually the best bet.

Your best bet is to call your local construction office.

Place ads on every platform you can where home buyers could be looking for an inexpensive home.

What investor website platform did you use?

Your best bet is to get some payments under your belt then after about a year to 18 months, see if the lender will let your transfer title without repercussion. 

I bet Chicago has a lot of scrap I beams laying around.

I would also blog about the entire process, start building a thought leadership platform and connecting with more investors so that I could scale from 8-15 to 30-50 and eventually up to 75+.