Time will tell as Detroit still has quite a few hurdles to overcome but I believe it's worth dipping your toe in the water on a property or two.

In order to overcome this feeling you must get organized.

Most people in this situation would not want to sound incompetant so it would get ridden off as a low ball or bad offer.How can some of these hurdles be overcome?

. - not only does one need to eventually jump in and take action, but WHEN they hit some rough spots (because everyone will at some point), they need to be able to overcome the challenges and move forward to be successful. 

For most, fear of failure overcomes the opportunity to achieve.

But of course, your administration may easily be able to overcome that potential weakness.

I'd imagine you'd have zoning and legal description issues to overcome..... 

I also do not want to rent the place out and get in trouble for mortgage fraud...I am eager to start my real estate investing career, but am not quite sure how to overcome this dilemma.

Hi Padric,The only obstacle I see is you living inside the investment which like everything else can be overcome with patience.

Don't let the excitement of get this property overcome your rational senses if/when the seller counters.