On the positive side, the price points and rent-to-price ratios in Detroit make it a compelling option compared to California.

Free option available too.    

So you could see about going to auctions and winning a "cheaper" bid on a property there, if you decide that's an option.

Hi Jasmine-Congratulations on being ready to turn your primary residence into a rental.Your question is should you use a property manager or self-manage your property.If there is enough positive cashflow or you can afford to pay a property manager, I always recommend doing so for the following reasons:1.

@Marie Copul Hey Marie, Sorry to hear you are in a position of hating your job.

Even in HCOL areas, adding an ADU typically does not make sense because developing a single small unit is the most expensive residential development that exists.Adding an ADU is a lot of work (probably more than a brrrr but with worse return), has poor financing options, typically adds less value than the cost of the addition, and detracts something from the primary structure even if it is just yard and privacy.Good luck 

There's a few mortgage brokers in the area I'm happy to connect you with do dive deeper into your options.

The "non conforming" lending options are actually called NonQM (non qualified mortgages).

Hi Treza,Not sure where you are in the process there, but when your ready to exercise financing options please reach out, it's very difficult to find a ground up program for inexperienced borrowers without having an experienced GC sign on the loan with you which in turn is not easy to find. 

I saw dealmachine looks cool but the reviews from others here on BP have not been positive so I have stayed away for time being.