I live in Los Angeles, CA but the contractor would be on the ground and onsite for the first year, with me moving back home in 2020.My beginning steps was the Detroit market - after a year of research only this past Monday did all conversations lead to Atlanta.Any and all answers, suggestions, and advice is greatly appreciated, as this is my very venture into anything real estate.From what I vaguely know of Riverdale - make that your very last option as crime and lack of job growth was not too positive as of late 2017...only my one cent.Most excellent luck to you in bringing my birth city to life!

The decisions you make at the beginning of your new venture have a major impact on your success.

Then venture out. 

@Gabe Cole Have a lawyer draft a rock solid Joint Venture agreement.

Just like you, I found that the 1% rule doesn't exist in NJ and ventured out of state into the Midwest and south.

I’m certainly going to try to venture in this direction if I am able to.

Out of state is where I may eventually end up but I want to get my feet under me going through my first deal locally before venturing out.  

At this point I see why I never ventured down this path. 

He's a smart business owner who "retired" a couple years ago and is now starting new ventures.

I'd venture to say that if he's asking you to help him find a buyer and you don't even know where to start then it's probably not a good idea for either of you.