Investing in Lowell/Lynn MA - Question from Beginner

[Matt T.]

Hello all, 

I am a young/beginner investor living in Boston, MA. Within the past two years I graduated college and began work. I am nearing the point of looking to purchase a multifamily in areas near my work. I work just North of Boston and was thinking of looking to purchase in areas that I can afford (I have been researching in Lowell and Lynn). 

My plan was to House Hack with a duplex/multifamily in one of these areas. I would apply for an FHA loan, put down about 8-10%. A few concerns that I have are

1) I have been reading this forum and understand that prices are very high and therefore cash flow opportunities is very hard. 

2) I have no experience with renovating/fixing older properties, and have no real estate connections to help me find properties that are fair value. I am thinking I will have to go through a broker. 

3) I have heard that these places are probably "C" class neighborhoods, so the prospect of living in them is a bit intimidating. 

My questions are: 

1) Even if I cannot cash flow, should I not even consider buying? I am living at home now so soon I will have to move out, I figured it would be best to "House Hack" and get a negative cash flow as opposed to paying 800 to 900 in rent. 

2) Will I not be getting a good deal if I go through a broker, or buy a turn key property? 

3) Do I need a lot of experience to buy a run down property and renovate it? 

4) Does anyone have experience buying/renting/living in Lynn or Lowell? Any tips or advice?

Any advice would be awesome. I would love to speak with someone who has experience in these areas. Thank you.