As someone who does flips for a living I don't know that I would have much of a business in Chicago if I stayed away from older properties. 

Hi Tim,I would just recommend that your realtor stays in consistent communication with the seller’s attorney for progress/status.

Some brokerages have retainers for an attorney on call.Brokers talk in the business and some agents causing big waves and headaches they give a heads up through back door channels to stay away from them and not add to their firm.No legal advice given.  

Have a great week and stay motivated.

In fact, I advise the owner to stay away so they don't get involved and cause problems.

This method won't last too long as once a tenant wants to move out, they will not be able to move in until the 1st.....they will stay from the 15th to the last day and nothing you can do about it

Many of our investors will do a cash out refi after a brief seasoning period, and are able to draw cash out to buy their next one.As @James Wise pointed out, investing OOS is not that scary if you work with the right provider. 

Oh, and do yourself and your mentors a favor, otherwise they will not take you onboard, or they drop you quickly: do not waste your mentors time and stay positive.

@Cameron Silva Those are all good reasons to be in Dayton, and they are among the reasons I stay here.

Prefer to stay within 30 miles but am I being too picky?