I’m in search of existing investors or STR operators in Utica, IL, Ottawa, IL, and the nearby Starved Rock region for potential gatherings.

@Donna Beth Perch you just joined BP yesterday, obviously searching for shortcut answers.Your bio states you are an agent, does your broker know you are managing so they can update their E&O Insurance to cover your management activities?

Call your friendly local appraiser.

For the rentals, we always have a local "on call" relationship with a local investor to assist when needed.

Very rarely will a bank bid on a tax foreclosure, if it happens it's usually small local banks who would rather have the county do the foreclosure instead of them.  

I am trying to do some due diligence in searching out those mortgage companies that don't care about credit but keep running into brick walls.

Hi John, I recommend reaching out to a local property manager (search on Google Maps) with many 5-star reviews to see what legal action you can take before the Sheriff is available to execute the eviction.Property managers specialize in landlord-tenant law and should be able to help you determine a path forward that doesn't require waiting 3 months after the lease ends.

Local brokers in your market will know the current cap rates for the property class, mainly based on recent comparable sales.

I was filing with a local CPA (also a friend) and she was only charging about $800.

Also, is there a site for a  title search?