Federal programs will require you to use GC/licensed folks for a lot of the work and they will get reimbursed by the institution that your loan is with; many GCs don't want to wait on the float time of requesting funds and getting them.Depending on the program and rehab/condition of the home, you may not be required to live in the home (think black mold remediation...bank isn't going to put you in a compromised position) however they may have min/max of when you need to move in.

We used an REO broker to find bulk packages of foreclosed distressed houses for sale from banks.

If you want a second opinion check credit karma, ask your credit card or your bank.

Those buying close to the city are either breaking even or taking negative cashflow and banking on appreciation (or buying all cash and parking money, ha).If you do consider Lowell, I'd also recommend you check out the Fitchburg/Leominster area as well.

Horse stable in the middle of LA, 20 acres 1/2 swamp next to major airport in Florida, church with 6 acres in the middle of town, contact bank Trust departments and let them know you want to buy.  

I pay my mortgages through my banks App and there is a button I push that switches it from the monthly payment to being able to allow for a one-time principle only payment.

The last forecasts I have seen from major banks and the MBA are still expecting rates in the 5.9%-ish range for spring 2025 (Q2) and that does not make any sense to me given what I see.

Like banks?

I don't have experience with the Detroit Land Bank, but generally land banks are pretty reliable, but...they are low money buys (from $1 to $1,000) that require you to show proof of funds for the rehab.

If your using financing the bank requires this.