I currently work in the IT Field at IBM, and just finished up my Masters degree in the same field.I think there was a book, or blog post (one of many) that pointed me to this site as a plethora of knowledge in the real estate investment arena. 

I did all work with the city to get plans approved, found my own structural engineer, represented myself at the various reviews, spent numerous hours not knowing what I was doing, and eventually got it built.It took almost 16 months for me to get the approved plans, and only 5 months of construction.I learned a TON in the process, but even with everything I now know, I will NEVER do that again.  

Keep in mind, this is JUST the City - it does not take into account the State and County and other (numerous) taxing bodies that also levy taxes on Chicago's taxpayers.http://www.chicagobusiness.com/article/20151031/IS...

(Just make sure the technical specs are the same too)Example:200 dollar ryobi backpack blower 510 cfm 185 mphEVERYONE hates ryobi because it is chinese but I realized early on in the field that if you maintain your equipment and baby it like the expensive Echo's and stihls it will last just the same.

I'd love to hear from veterans in this field for information and guidance.

Maybe you'll check out a new field and make a lot less money and it wont matter anymore.

Oh and, you are on the right track by choosing a job in the RE field.

If you have listened to enough podcasts you would have heard numerous accounts by guest speakers and the hosts of BP that their biggest regrets have been buying in "bad neighborhoods and not renting to great tenants".  

When I was in your spot, I just sent out some yellow letters to these prospects and started fielding calls.

I've asked this question numerous times here on the forums and I've asked brokers.