I start my licensing classes this weekend and have already started thinking about where I'll hang my license.I'm getting my license so I can access the MLS at 3:30 am if I so choose.

You can use the MLS if you choose.

Also, setting aside the ding to the amount in rent you can charge, my guess is that you'll have a much smaller pool of tenants to choose from without a garage.

Pending the type/style of investing you choose to do.

(I am biased, but choose for yourself).http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-clubs/illinois.html

Know how to do all types of investing, such as wholesaling, creative financing, rehabbing, and options.2) choose one particular niche strategy that is easily scaleable, simplify it, create systems, automate it, and outsource it.

. - I live in the city of Chicago, so for us there are plenty of areas / neighborhoods to choose from.

I would look for an equity partner. 20k isn't an ungodly amount of money and there are probably many people in your circle that would have money like that to invest, you just have to convince them and choose a good partner.

To be able to choose to go on vacation and not set a date when to go back home would most definitely be a great option. :)

I know if I choose to submit an offer later, I can add the contingency of right of refusal after inspection.