Subto Method to HouseHack.. Advice?

[Alexandra Belle]

Hi all, I really want to house-hack as my first entrance into the investor world. 

With low cash on hand on no steady "on paper" employment over the last 2 years I feel a subject-to deal would be best for me right now. Has anyone ever house-hacked using a subject to method? I'd love to hear your story. 

What's the best list of homeowners to go for when doing sub-to? Preforclosures? Probate? Out of state owners of abandoned properties? I'm in Detroit and see a lot of abandoned properties that seem very much salvageable. 

Also, where do I find said lists/homeowners with their info? Somebody mentioned my county's register of deeds - do I just walk in and say I want a list of all current preforclosed homes/ probated homes etc?

Is a lawyer necessary for sub to? If so, recommendations in Michigan welcome. 

I'm also a licensed Realtor for what it's worth.

Thanks!