@Zach Denny  Similar to what Minna posted above, I have done with a local portfolio lender bank where they set their own lending rules. 

Focus on rebuilding your credit, saving for a down payment, and learning the local market.

Both have great groups of folks who invest locally.  

I think the moral to the story is always do your own research & utilize places like your local real estate investor associations where there’s a wealth of knowledge for free, without the costs associated with a program like this. 

i like your idea to stay local. 

.)- Crime stats... if you know specific zip codes/submarkets that you'd like to target, the best data will come from local precincts. - and more..I'd recommend remaining active not only here on BiggerPockets, but in other valuable RE investment networks that you can find - i.e. local meetups (meetup.com, eventbrite, BP local events). 

If that is all ok then get a very good local realtor to run comps in that area to determine the conservative value of the home once you've completed the renovation work(ARV).

Having a reliable local team, including a property manager and a realtor familiar with the market, is the best way to avoid high-crime areas.If you’re leaning towards Richmond or have more questions about the market here, feel free to reach out.

I love the town, but I guess that my point is that it has substantial challenges as a full time local.

He gets how much work managing it locally is and I get the benefit of having my DTI not effected.