I would like to enter the landscape of real estate investing, but the area I live in has a barrier to entry with regards to cost.

., but their lots were like parks.

Looks like your classic Ponzi scheme.

Get a 50% LTV loan and buy another property just like the one you own. 

Does anybody invest in his market and if so what is the spring and summer like?

With a larger organization like iintoo you'll likely be talking to an account manager that has been assigned to working with you.

I usually like to start it shorter to be safe if I need to end the tenancy, but I know some people opt for the longer 14-15 month leases.

Verifying last 2 years of rental history and income extremely important to find the “best of the worst”.Make sure you understand the Class of properties you are looking at and the corresponding results to expect.The City of Detroit has 183 Neighborhoods we’ve analyzed.DM us if you’d like to discuss this logical approach in greater detail!

We've never used percentage-based criteria, like the 70% Rule, for purchases.

It's likely you'll be able to raise the rent as well with the upgraded unit and you can look to market it during the time of rehab.