One thing I learned the hard way - set your screening criteria first, then pick the platform.

O man you picked an awesome spot to start here in Chicago @Aidan Kelly... 

I just picked up a duplex in Ohio, fully renovated in a B/C area for $160k, rents are $2200 

The market has really picked up.

DOM on the best picks is 1–3 days before they go under contract.

Starting to build your team before your first deal is actually the right move.One thing I would recommend first is to pick one investing strategy and really learn it well.

Start with your strategy first (cash flow vs appreciation vs scale), then pick the market and asset class that align with that — not the other way around.If you want to go deeper on strategy or run through numbers, shoot me a PM.

I’m always looking for solid assets in good locations where there’s room to improve the rents and hold long term.A good example is a deal I picked up at 1927 NW 20 Ave in Miami.

The county literally picks numbers out of the air and if you don't protest you pay the increased tax. 

Or do you pick a market first and adapt your strategy around it?