I'd like to invest in Higher-end properties, but as a newbie with limited funds, I have to start somewhere!

You bring the skills; they bring the funds—win-win.Private Money Lending: Find people (friends, family, colleagues) interested in real estate but not actively involved.

I could alternatively put that down in a index fund for S&P that gets about 8-11%.  

Platforms like Peerspace or Giggster can offer high payouts per booking, letting you earn with fewer ongoing responsibilities.Consider Selling: Selling could free up funds to invest in a property better suited to your goals.Each option offers unique benefits, and I’d be happy to connect you with resources to get started.

But like I said, I'm starting to see a lot of development in the worst neighborhoods in Baltimore, so either there's a lot of LIHTC funding to be had or something... 

Every aspect of real estate is syndicated from ATM machines, farms, to multifamily to debt funds. 

So if you renovate and the property appraises higher, you could use a cash-out refinance to access funds for a new down payment on another multifamily property—without creating a taxable event.

Hello,   I believe this program is fairly new, so I don't know if anyone would, but do any MI investors have experience using the "Lead Poisoning Prevention Fund" through an organization Michigan Saves?

Don’t fund the additional 25 unit add in with your money.  

That way you know the funds are ready and investable.