Hopefully this is a fun “what would you do” RE question for the unique times we all live in:If your goal was to get to $4000/month in income asap or by 2023 and you have/make...50k in cash.200k in stock you’re comfortable liquidating for a smart RE investment.160K in HELOC available from a house-hacked BRRRR you completed.A forever remote full-time W-2You’re comfortable moving anywhere in the U.S with standard lifestyle amenities for a millennial (no podunk middle-of-nowhere class D places - this one’s tricky :-).150k in yearly income (W-2 + annual rental income)...what would you do?

Each stone has a unique power and when wielded well has the power to transform everything around it.

My reason is simple: Chicago is a tough market and you can lose your shirt due to reasons unique to Chicago and Illinois.Sing and dance all you want, but investment opportunities MUST be viewed in the context of two things: First, does it “hit your numbers” – which includes such non-numeric things as risk tolerance and goals, and; Second – and this is where you fall down in my book – what are the alternative investments that also “hit your numbers” but with less risk?

Unless you’re purchasing a really unique property or a funky deal, use your trusted loan officer from a national bank who can lend anywhere.

But there's an important question that hasn't been addressed about the reason why the Bay Area has been such a unique and strong market for the past ~10+ yrs. and it has to do with its main economic force that makes it desirable.

Both can definitely work so I'd go with what you want and what fits your decor style. 

Unless you are looking to build something extravagant and large with a unique design.Also, there is a LOT to consider regarding sand filter or regular filter, backwash line ran, pool pump (variable speed or single), pool heater (Gas vs electric and the kWH of the heating elements), whether doing a salt water system, something like a drinkable pool water system, or typical chlorine pool (which will often need a chemical feeder).Also dehumidification is important.

This property is in South Philadelphia, which is a heavily congested area where homes are small and yards are smaller, but this property had a unique offering of an 18x33 side yard.

One of those, as an example, was not updating very old and very unique cottage style windows in a few places.

I've had tenants who decorated it beautifully.