Looks like you've got things covered, but if you need another agent in the mix feel free to reach out to me, my team and I cover all of northern IL.

If you're looking into companies that you invest your money with and they work on your behalf, that's going to be a lot different than building a team here in the US and doing some of the investing yourself with the help of a property manager, a handyman, real estate agent, etc.  

Always do the math analysis on a prospective property and try to look at it of at least have a clause in the sales contract that allows you some time (about 15 days) to make a detailed inspection and possibly walk out of the deal without a penalty that will hurt you too much.The thing you also should do in the beginning is to have a Team put together that typically have an Attorney, real estate Agents, a CPA (or accountants), Inspectors, general Contractors, and Handymen.  

I am planning to visit some properties, meet with local contractors and RE agents, etc. 

I then ran it by an agent who said the seller does not have to as long as that is part of the agreed upon terms.

As to comparing the different options, what I've found is that if you're working with an agent, looking at properties on the MLS, the properties are not going to be drastically different.  

I am new to the real estate industry and am looking for personal investment opportunities. I also want to learn everything I can.

I assume I'd need a good pump, a water softener and a water filter.  

Hi All!I am new and learning what I would need to do to obtain my first property. I am excited to learn from everyone!

I recommend getting a license but I'm biased because I am an agent.