A few helpful clarifying questions, hopefully help get your wheels turning as well, would be:What are you planning on doing with the property and what is your exit plan?

I didn't have a specific clause in the lease about dog poop, but the lease did state that I would charge $100/hr for any maintenance that was due to tenant negligence.

I plan to live there while I renovate, then pull out my investment upon refinancing.

I plan to live in in while I renovate it, then pull out my original investment (and maybe a bit more) upon refinancing.

I would try to avoid it on your very first deal but plan your exit right with multiple options.

Starting to work on a 4 unit property, set up as two duplexes; two units to the left, 1st and second floor and the same to the right.  Each unit has its own entrance/exit in addition to the common egress. This has pot...

This is a state license though...you do not need anything specific to Chicago if you are thinking of managing here.

Set clear money targets, make a plan for investing, and check and tweak your plan as you go.

I plan to buy a duplex soon to begin my real estate journey.

Having a unified approach can help manage stress and ensure you’re both comfortable with the financial decisions.Market Research:Thoroughly research the market and neighborhoods where you plan to buy.