If data show approaching that top again for your area you might want to change your plan.

what data or report did you read the cities you have mentioned have had larger appreciation then Chicago?

I sat in that 3-day seminar and listened as I was told...just sign up as a Mastery student, and we will ensure you have a deal in 1 month.  

As for the data, there are better alternatives to expensive one-time lists though.

Here is what we are doing...Re key home to make new tenant keysClean up and shape the landscaping and trim tree in rear of homeRepair exterior wood - Repaint all exterior siding and trim.Repair gate / fence leading into backyardReplace all kitchen cabinets with new cabinets - Paint white, then antiqueNew st steel stove, dishwasher, and vent a hoodNew countertops (kitchen)New wood laminate flooring in 2 living areas and hallway - 1st floorNew tile floor in downstairs bathroomNew vanity and sink in downstairs bathroomTile walls around tub to replace old tub surroundNew brushed nickel light fixtures and fans throughout the homeNew carpet and pad on stairs and upstairs hall and bedroomsNew tile floor in upstairs bathroomNew vanity and sink in upstairs bathroomTile walls around tub to replace old tub surround upstairs bathReplace old / damaged sheetrock where needed (mostly downstairs)Repaint all ceilings throughout homeRepaint all doors and trim throughout the homeRemove all wallpaper and paint all walls standard neutral colorsReplace all interior and exterior doorknobs and looks to new brushed nickel look to match lights and fansReplace all cabinet pulls and knobs with brushed nickel to match door knobs and lights/fansLicenced plumber to repair and service all plumbing fixtures / pipes to ensure no leaksLicensed HVAC technician coming to service and clean the heat and air to ensure it is working property."

I'm trying to figure out the most efficient way to grab this data without having to look through 10 different newspapers.

Your time here will be well spent.You mentioned an interest in wholesaling as well as buy and hold, so I added a couple links for your reading pleasure.http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/02/22/buying-rental-property/ (how to buy a rental property)https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2015/01/31/ultimate-beginners-guide-real-estate-wholesaling-2/ (Ultimate beginners guide to wholesaling)Now that you have made the move, below are some links that will help with the navigation of the site. http://www.biggerpockets.com/startherehttp://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSetting up Keyword AlertsHow to Use @Mentions on BiggerPocketshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/ruleshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/inviteshttps://www.udemy.com/biggerpockets-real-estate-investing-course/ (video with 64 lectures and approx 6hrs of material)https://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investing (Ultimate beginner's guide to REI)Before your 1st purchase, please ensure you visit the below link for some tips.https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2014/12/19/real-estate-investing-success-smart-tips/REI books suggested by BPershttps://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2015/11/13/7-real-estate-books-beginner-investors/ (7 absolute must read books for beginner REIs)http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/04/14/best-real-estate-books/?

You must take risks, but, ensure that they are calculated risks.Below are some links to get you started. http://www.biggerpockets.com/startherehttp://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSetting up Keyword AlertsHow to Use @Mentions on BiggerPocketshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/rules https://www.biggerpockets.com/inviteshttps://www.udemy.com/biggerpockets-real-estate-investing-course/ (video with 64 lectures and approx 6hrs of material)https://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investing (Ultimate beginner's guide to REI)REI books suggested by BPershttps://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2015/11/13/7-real-estate-books-beginner-investors/ (7 absolute must read books for beginner REIs)http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/04/14/best-real-estate-books/?

We also do a little bit of back end work such as data entry, converting JPEG files to word, etc etc.I was on a call with a BiggerPockets member this morning and he mentioned he hired a VA who is pulling list for him from county records that he is planning to mail on.

There has got to be a way to pull this data out automatically.Any insight would be tremendous!