So the real answer is do what's comfortable for you and what makes sense based on your own financial position, your age, your desired outcome, and your local market.

Thanks so much for your advice for a local lender.

Detroit is very much a block-by-block city, so having local knowledge is absolutely critical.

Look for a local credit union that can offer a cash-out refinance once the work is done, ideally with minimal seasoning.

I’m Monica Bynum here a local agent in Memphis, Tn.

I call them in-between because they are conferences, so not like your local meetups, but they are not truly "industry" conferences like NMHC, where you will meet primarily career, corporate multi-family people.Bigger Pockets Conference and Best Ever Conference are two that likely would cater to people more in your position.  

If you are looking to house hack in our local neck of the woods, I recommend reaching out to @Josh Green.

Go to BUILD YOUR TEAM at the top of the screen and look for local investors or meetups in your area.

@Nitesh Chand check your state & local laws!

Do you live locally?