Cleveland - Is my buy-and-hold strategy realistic?

[Tracy Saiki]

Hello Cleveland Investors and RE Professionals! I'm a California-based investor and real estate lawyer interested in testing some Midwest markets this year. Cleveland is on my short-list. Basically, my goal would be working with a broker who can find distressed properties with good buy-and-hold potential (somewhat under ARV, but not crazy cheap), then connect me with a project manager and contractor to supervise the work. Goal would be to buy for cash, then do deferred financing. In CA, my realtor is also a property manager and investor, so I know he won't lead me into a property that he doesn't think is manageable. Interested in any local feedback on whether that's doable from out of state or referrals to team members or potential partners who might be a fit. I have looked at turnkey as a potential option, but I like a bit more interaction than it allows. Thanks in advance for any feedback, or alternative ideas!

[Todd Dexheimer]

The issue in Cleveland from my research and talking with some of the top brokers is that it is difficult to assemble a solid team on the ground. Property managers are hard to come by and contractor are difficult as well. I would suggest finding a good team and then getting the deals