Trying to make a start in real estate

Hey, I'm looking to get a start in real estate, working on my credit for the past year and a half and current at 681 with a few thousand saved. I've been told to look for foreclosure properties and scattered housing (I think that's what it is). I'm a novice to this and would like to possible purchase 2 rental properties this year by the summer. If there are any members in the Illinois area, what areas in Illinois are the easiest or quickest to get occupied? I guess what I'm asking is what blueprints do I need to follow to find success and what advice can you give me. Gratitude