Unless a different one would be better that you could suggest   If you are house hacking you can utilize 3-10% down. 20%+ is great to put down but not always possible.

So while that’s a great asset you pay more for it typically.

Like you said, you have to make deals and look outside of the typical markets. 

Look into connecting with some local investors, they typically have meet-ups often and swap stories and different strategies.

I am grateful that you shared this, because I do think a lot of these gurus, while generally having good intentions, are typically very naive and lack experience to truly teach anything.  

@Mattin Hosh first, most cities in Metro Detroit have some type of rental property inspection every 2-3 years.It's not really a big deal 99% of the time - especially for owners who are NOT slumlords:)Also, a quick Google search will show that several states/cities are passing/considering similar legislation.One of the biggest mistakes we see newer investors making is NOT properly understanding Neighborhood/Property/Tenant Classes and naively assuming that any rental they buy will deliver Class A results.Read our copy & paste thoughts below and DM us if you'd like to dicuss more about the Detroit market:)-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Recommend you first figure out the property Class you want to invest in, THEN figure out the corresponding location to invest in.Property Class will typically dictate the Class of tenant you get, which greatly IMPACTS rental income stability and property maintenance/damage by tenants.If you apply Class A assumptions to a Class B or C purchase, your expectations won’t be met and it may be a financial disaster.If you buy/renovate a property in Class D area to Class A standards, what quality of tenant will you get?

Maybe selling is an idea worth considering if the house is a Mona Lisa and kind of beyond the general reality of typical tenant's maintenance obligation and ability, and they aren't paying for the additional quality.If you really want to keep the home, you may find a way to be very happy about it with the right team, whether it be property management, electricians, contractors, or tenants.

It generally isn't worth the brain damage of experimenting though....especially if you want to move to a new home that you will own inside of the typical lender's seasoning period.

There is the Experian Boost that adds monthly utility bills as credit and various apps and facebook groups.

Typically, 8- 12% net for OOS investors based on cash purchases.Good luck