Now I’m looking into the Detroit and Ohio areas (Toledo, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus) since they seem to have growing populations and affordable properties under $200k as well.  

Anyway, here I am many years later, a senior myself at 71, and living in Redding, CA, and thinking of doing a senior project. 

I just got my Real Estate license and am pretty happy to have passed on the first try.

And would they be willing to do financing for you so you don't have to pay cash up front? 

There are several myths that we have to debunk before someone truly believes they can do it.You need millions of dollars to do a dealThat it’s too complicated to figure outThat permitting takes yearsIn those communities developments cost way less (think a couple hundred thousand along with a loan from a regional bank), permitting is not difficult (much less red tape), and the towns are small enough that both the city staff and the local architects and engineers and contractors all work with you to help you navigate the process since you’re all invested in making your community better.Note: The big boys can play in the primary & secondary markets.

I spent many years managing myself and personally collecting rent checks. 

Location of property How did you find this deal and how did you negotiate it?

Quote from @Jaikevis Reams: In order to put a property under contract I need to provide proof of funds I know that I can get that from a hard money lender but I don’t meet there criteria for a loan approval what should I do? 

Please check your private DM and email messages and please respond there.

I took that money and bought two other places.