This has made it a lot easier for the 1-5 unit operators and encouraged them to keep going. we manage 25 ltr and own 18 we use apartments.com, free and works great 

Rochester I would also include as a comparable town.I'd encourage you to focus on 3-4 unit properties as that is typically where they pencil out. 

So, owners mistakenly think price is the only differentiator – and look for a PMC like they’d shop for groceries☹We encourage you to learn from the mistakes of others by reading posts here on BiggerPockets from owners that picked a PMC solely by price and regretted it.We recommend exploring as many sources as possible to get referrals AND cross-reference them to get as much accurate information as possible.Check out NARPM.com, BP’s Property Manager Finder (BiggerPockets: The Real Estate Investing Social Network), etc.Even if someone gives you a referral, do NOT make the mistake of assuming that just because a PMC met their expectations, they’ll meet your expectations.

I have really just been looking at on-market deals in markets that have encouraging growth.

In the current environment, I always encourage clients to spring for the 3 unit if they can afford it as the numbers always work so much better for the house hack.

I would also encourage you to attend some meetups with local investors in Chicago.

As a local SB section 8 investor, I would encourage you to invest close to home.

It can create a false sense of performance that does not reflect the true economics of the deal.While I fully endorse investing in Philadelphia, I would encourage gaining a deeper familiarity with the city and its neighborhoods.

Looking forward to interacting with you all, I'm happy to offer insights or help troubleshoot anything I have come across in my career in real estate. 

Lots of experience and helpful encouragement in the group!