Also if there are any local mentors in my area who would be willing and interested in helping me out I also am connected to Michigan as well! 

Hello Gagan, Some important tools and resources I incorporate into my business to help finding deals is to network with local investors.

Connecting with local investors and agents can also give you insights into up-and-coming areas that fit your budget and goals.Good luck!

Contact the listing agents managing broker immediately and if you don’t get a satisfactory answer immediately contact your state and local real estate boards.

This will help you close deals faster.Focus on marketing and lead generation to find motivated sellers—direct mail, driving for dollars, and online marketing all work well here.Know your numbers—being able to accurately assess the value of properties and make solid offers is key.Network with other investors and professionals—attend local REI meetups, connect with title companies, and build relationships with hard money lenders.Feel free to reach out if you ever want to chat more or exchange ideas!

Hi does anyone have experience with providing direct STR stays (so not through Airbnb or VRBO) and charging, collecting, and remitting the local Chicago hotel tax?

Just be sure to check local laws on utility billing in Michigan before implementing anything, because this may not even be an option.

I'd check local STR FB groups and see if you have a local Real Estate Club.You can offer your services there, maybe for free in exchange for the experience.

If you are considering looking in that location, I HIGHLY suggest you connect with a local expert like @Josh Green

If you’re comfortable with the process and local regulations, new construction might yield higher equity, but for simplicity, an existing duplex is safer.