Keep in mind as a new investor the PML and HML lenders will expect you to put money down on your deals @ 10% to 20% until you can get some experience under your belt.

Sounds like you off to a good start with a couple of deals under your belt.

if you're trying to get a bunch of properties under your belt to create some cash flow, and you feel comfortable with the area it is in, fix it yourself and rent it out.if you need the cash for something else, or want to save up for a more expensive place for a rental, flip it.

I'm asking because I have read on here that networking/partner, with another wholesaler in a particular area is one way of gaining experience or getting the first deal under your belt, I'm looking to possibly go that direction.

Though I'm loath to ever recommend family or friends, my suggestion is to wait until you get some experience under your belt before you start approaching those with no lending experience.

Initially, I want to manage the properties myself, until I get 2-3 properties under my belt to increase cash flow.  

You come here asking a question you don't know about, @Jeffrey Sampson, then strongly disagree with an answer because you have 32 years of experience (and less than one flip under your belt, according to your profile)?  

What is your opinion are these large swaths of boarded up homes we see in the mid west upper rust belt ruining these cities or are they an investors dream opportunity to get into the RE game for ridiculously low price points Vis a Vi the historical norm..Say a 1k house in Detroit that sold 10 years ago for over 100k..

Of course if you find a lender that will give you this much money, it will not be cheap so be prepared for higher points and interest rates.Once you get a couple of deals under your belt and have more confidence and the experience to back it up, you might be able to raise some private money from friends and family. 

I have two flips under my belt and currently have one rental property, but I really feel like I'm just "winging it".