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

You must hire locals who are familiar and acclimated to the culture of the city you plan to create rentals in. 

I also personally know students who have worked with Lee Arnold in my local area.

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

there are ways to get guidance, especially if you are local.

Quote from @Devin Slone: I live in Huntington and was looking for local meetups to go to and I just stumbled upon this post!

Should I find a local agent or use a lawer?

The 24.9% share is greater than the national average of 13.8%, according to CoworkingMag.The Austin metro had a 261% increase in teleworkers between 2014 and 2023, the report found, which is above the national average of 207%.https://www.kxan.com/news/local/austin/report-austin-leads-u...

I work for a local house flipper in the Greensboro area (Winston Salem).

If you have $210,000, you can easily make 10% as a bridge/hard money lender in your local area.