@Paris Scroggins thanks is there any sources for research you can recommend for me?

Is there reliable source to find out how the home is built?

The vetting is the most important part regardless of applicant funding sources. 

I cannot currently find a source on what that test is, but you should talk with a CPA about this anyway.I just discussed this exact situation with Thomas Castelli last week.

Whats the best cheap lead sources?

How much time you need to gain appreciation depends on the asset, the sub market, and most importantly the investor choosing and managing the asset, and in the most extreme example your lifespan.Risk in real estate investing comes from two sources. the 1st and biggest contributor is investor error.

Are there laws that I should be aware of as a foreign investor? 

Is there any other recommended sources to find groups in my area that you know of?

Learn the new crowdfunding laws for continuously sourcing new investor leads. 

I would join up with several of the local Chicago REIAs on MeetUpThey constantly have workshops and networking meetings and IMO are a great source of golden nuggets of information.