All Forum Posts by: Jarret Jarvis

Hey Eshe — welcome to the community!

Love your energy and the intentionality you're bringing to the game. "Vision is my capital" is such a powerful mindset, and it sounds like you're laying a solid foundation for long-term success. I'm a fellow investor and agent based here in Chicago as well, and it’s always great to see other driven folks making moves in our market.

Happy to connect and share anything I can to support your journey—whether it's about house hacking, BRRRR, or building a referral network here in the city. Let's definitely keep the convo going. Wishing you all the best with Harveaux™ and the empire you're building!

#LETSGO

– Jarret

Hey Naomi!

You're asking all the right questions, and it’s great to see you thinking long-term while weighing lifestyle, appreciation, and logistics. This can definitely feel overwhelming, but you're not alone—lots of first-time buyers and house hackers go through this same thought process.

As an agent and investor based in Chicago, I’ll say this: the city offers a ton of opportunity, especially for house hacking. Yes, many of the properties need some updating, but that’s where the value-add potential comes in—especially if you partner with the right team to guide you through repairs or even light cosmetic updates. The rental demand in many neighborhoods is strong, and with the right deal, it can really set you up for equity and cash flow.

That said, it’s totally valid to be cautious if you’re not going to live in the property long-term. If Columbus feels like a "maybe," and Dallas is easier to access for you and your sister, it might make sense to wait for the right deal in a market you’re more confident about—especially if you're thinking about lifestyle fit after residency.

Happy to connect and walk you through what investing and house hacking in Chicago would look like—both the pros and the stuff to watch out for. Whatever you choose, the fact that you’re being thoughtful now will pay off big time down the road! #LETSGO

– Jarret (Chicago-based agent + investor)

Hey Tiffany! Welcome to the journey — you're in the right place!

When approaching a lender for fix-and-flip projects, it's helpful to come prepared with a basic deal analysis, even if it's just a rough one. Lenders usually want to see the purchase price, estimated rehab costs, ARV (after-repair value), and your experience (or your team's). You don't need to have all the answers yet — just show them you're serious and willing to learn.

As for estimating and budgeting, you're not alone! A great way to start is by networking with local investors, agents, and contractors — they'll help you get a better sense of local repair costs. Also, there are deal calculators and apps out there that can help you run quick numbers.

Happy to connect if you want help building a plan or finding the right lender for your goals! #LETSGO

—Jarret (Chicago-based agent & investor) 

Hey Nathan, welcome to BiggerPockets!

I'm a real estate agent here in Chicago, and it's awesome to see someone with your background getting into real estate investing. Your experience on the fixed income side will definitely give you an edge when analyzing deals and understanding market dynamics.

If you ever want to chat about local neighborhoods, investment strategies, or just bounce around ideas, feel free to reach out. Always happy to connect with fellow Chicago investors! #letsgo

– Jarret

Hey Andrew — welcome to the game and happy (belated?) 23rd!

I'm a real estate agent here in Chicago, and it's awesome to see you already making moves with Airbnb arbitrage. Starting young and looking at Indiana for investing is a smart play—lots of opportunity over there. If you ever want to chat strategy, markets, or next steps, feel free to reach out. Always happy to connect with motivated investors!

Let’s definitely keep in touch! #letsgo

– Jarret

Hey Tim, welcome to the world of real estate investing!

I'm a real estate agent and would be happy to connect you with some great resources and people in the industry. Depending on what type of investing you're looking into (flipping, rentals, etc.), I can point you in the right direction for local groups, meetups, or other investors who are starting out as well.

Feel free to message me anytime if you want to chat or need recommendations for building your network! #letsgo

– Jarret

Joseph you can add me to the list. 

Hey Estefania, welcome to BiggerPockets and the world of real estate investing! 👋

I'm a real estate agent based here in Chicago as well, and it's always great to connect with other locals—especially those passionate about flipping! If you ever want to chat about neighborhoods, deals, or just share salsa spots in the city, feel free to reach out.

Wishing you tons of success on your investing journey! #LETSGO

– Jarret

Hey Dahtanum, welcome to the fix-and-flip world!

Rehab costs in Chicago’s South Suburbs can vary, but here’s a rough guide:

• Roof: $15K–$30K (depends on size & materials)

• Windows: $300–$700 each (single vs. double pane)

• Plumbing/Electrical: $3K–$10K+ (scope-dependent)

• HVAC: $5K–$12K (new furnace & AC)

• Siding: $6K–$15K

• Garage Reno: $3K–$8K

• Bathroom Update: $5K–$15K

• Kitchen Update: $10K–$25K

For per-square-foot rehab costs:

• Light: $20–$40/sqft (paint, flooring, minor fixes)

• Moderate: $40–$75/sqft (kitchen/bath updates, some systems work)

• Heavy: $75–$150/sqft (full gut, major structural/mechanical work)

Contractor pricing can be all over the place, so always get multiple bids and build a solid team. Hope this helps—good luck with your flips! #LETSGO

— Jarret

Hey Nas, welcome!

Paying cash can definitely help you score a better deal, especially on REOs — banks often prefer quick, no-hassle closings. You can find REOs on sites like Auction.com, Hubzu, or through a local agent with access to the MLS.

As for investing, single-family homes are great for beginners — easier to manage and sell. Apartments can offer better cash flow but require more oversight.

I'm local to Chicago if you ever want to connect or chat more! #LETSGO

— Jarret