I would stick to bigger reputable companies and friends and family starting out.

Hi Michael,I have a few signs with my company name, number and website on them.

My goal is to find lasting relationships while building a positive reputation in the area as I launch my RE investing career.If you are a knowledgeable investor in the area and need someone to research, help with maintenance projects, prospect etc.

Sure Chicago has a reputation and each neighborhood has a reputation but that is still not detailed enough to make a decision about whether a property is desirable or not..

I don't think I can put a link to the website on here.

You can find out if there are options in your area on the HUD website.

Looking in local classifieds, Craigslist, FSBOs, REO websites, and direct mail are ways to find properties that you might be able to get under market value.

Memphis Invest has an excellent reputation. 

I did some research and found a couple of legal resources for you: https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/sites/default/fil... https://advance.lexis.com/documentpage/teaserdocum...https://www.sheriff.co.pueblo.co.us/law/investigat...These websites talked about security deposits in CO.

Join REI groups (use meetup.com), maybe even try working with some reputable wholesalers to see how they do things.