Here is a summary of the book.https://www.nateliason.com/notes/long-distance-real-estate-investing-david-greeneIf the numbers doesn't make sense for you locally, that's the time you explore other route. 

This was my first deal, and house hacking made the most sense because it lowered the threshold for risk in my mind.

Lastly, the price point is still very cheap here in the sense that you can still find investment deals that hit the 1% rule for 120-180k!

Not to say you cannot find a deal in many of those states but for a first time investor wanting to be cost efficient it makes little sense to stick to those states.You do have states like Indiana, Ohio, Tenn, Florida, Georgia, Texas that offer higher inventory of home prices even 2-4 unit multifamily that are under $200K.

I can’t really tell you if that makes sense because there is so much to do with area.

Quote from @Mike Levene: Thanks @Scott Trench this makes a lot of sense.

I really hate the city because of taxes and water bills but the charming neighborhoods with a strong sense of community seem to be Lauraville, Beverly, Hamilton and Franklintown.

It makes sense to me but I foresee that to be a contentious point, even more if they end up not getting the rental.Thank you in advance!

If they are good, they don't have a problem finding work so doing your project at a deep discount makes no sense for them. 

Here are a few stats which should raise an eyebrow about Detroit $1 billion invested in more than 4,600 units of affordable housing over the past five years Job growth with more than 25,000 more Detroiters employed since 2014 A return to investment grade bond status for the first time since 2009Reductions in crime beating national trends, including the fewest homicides in 57 years Successfully hosting the largest ever NFL Draft at 775,000 people over three days In terms of starting out in Real Estate it also makes sense to invest in Detroit considering that the entry costs are low and if you plan to buy and hold, Section 8 makes for a great partner to insure steady rent payments.