In addition, the company that they recommend we work with, Prime, helped me set up my companies and though I repeatedly asked them if there were any differences in how it was set up because I was a Canadian, I was told that the way they suggested I do it was the right way.

Additionally, make sure you’re familiar with local property laws and any regulations that could impact your investment.I agree with @Jason Wray that you can easily find a cash flowing deal under 200k. 

If you want to add it to places like affordablehousing.com then that gives you more exposure.  

Here are a few additional strategies that might help mitigate risk if you decide to rent the property:Hire a Strong Property Management Company: While you’ve already spoken with some PMs, consider finding one with extensive experience managing single-family rentals in Cook County specifically.

Another option would be working with private lenders to see if they're open to your idea should you need additional funding. 

Additionally, some syndicators are mostly in the middle-person role of sorts; partnering with others who do the primary LOI/PSA/operation roles.

In addition to that, platforms like HomeAdvisor or Angi are great for finding vetted professionals, and local builders associations or the Greater Beaumont Chamber of Commerce may have directories or recommendations. 

Where I live there are many benefits to the voucher program in addition to guaranteed payments. 

The loan will be on the additional collateral you created.

Both properties have a substantial amount of equity that’s essentially sitting idle.Would it be a good idea to tap into this equity (through a HELOC, cash-out refinance, etc.) to fund future fix-and-flip projects or purchase additional rental properties?