Moving to Michigan, looking to make some connections!

[Travis Juntti]

Hello All, 

We are officially moving away from ND to Howell, MI in Livingston County to be close to family.  Unfortunately I've been laid off with the slow down in the oil market.  Being unemployed, we plan rent within close proximity to Howell, as that's where family is.  We means, my wife, 2 kids (2yrs and 10 months) and myself.   

That being said, does anyone have any rentals available or good sources they can point me towards?

Also, I'd like to start meeting some investor friendly real estate agents in Livingston County.  

I wanted to list some questions/comments on my strategy and feel free comment whether it's a good start, or if you see I should adjust.  This is broad I know, and I will define with more time in the area.  

Short-Term-find a personal residence.

Long-Term-invest in buy-and-hold SFH's in SE Michigan

-#1 goal is make sure family is taken care of by finding a place to call home, I would like this to be a live-in-flip (I've read the horror stories so will attempt to keep repairs minimal!) that has at least 3bed/1.5bath layout post-1978, this is due to the lead paint I don't want to deal with.  We would put 15-20% down on a house in the 125K-160K range.  

-Live here for 2 years or so and sell.  

-After that, or during, we'd like to keep our eyes on BRRRR properties in Livingston, Macomb, and Ingham counties for rentals.

Thanks all for viewing and your input, I look forward to connecting with you all in person!  

Travis