Bottom line call I'll try give u some tips point you to the proper game plan GMP...

Hello I am looking to get into the real estate game for the first time.

However, they have figured out the 'game' that they can buy off many problems rather cheaply, they tested you and you took the bait.This is the same disgusting screw the next guy mentality like 'cash for keys' promoted by low snake in the grass 'investors'. 

We're all a bunch of hustlers, and anybody who does even reasonable well in this game is pretty much born to the hustle and that's that.

My question to some of the smartest people on the web is thoughts on % of appreciation that you'd say "sell" when my tenant leaves?

However, if you are playing the long game then minimal cashflow now is fine as long as the property is appreciating.

If you plan on getting into these markets, I wouldn't expect much cashflow at all but if you are able to weather that in the mid-long term game, I just don't see A class neighborhoods in Chicago going anywhere but up (both value and rent price).These downtown neighborhoods are my bread and butter and I would love to connect with you to talk further about what your plans are and what types of properties you'll be looking for.

It's a numbers game and can vary based on your market and the season.Good luck!

If there was a team that developed an online game where you could simulate real estate investing, crunch numbers, find properties, and sell and lease homes it would be lucrative.

We won't always get lucky on the appreciation game so the emphasis should be on getting a good deal upfront.