RE is a big investment skilled people can tear your signed contract apart making it useless.

Detroit has some very strong investors, and some REALLY cool architecture, and a lot of skill sets that might translate to specialty manufacturing and high tech.The leadership after decades of terrible corruption seems to be a improved.

Knowing value is the number one investor skill.

Realtors and appraisers are most skilled in finding comps.

Assuming you are skilled, a person like you is in high demand for a volume flipper. 

For context:Original plan, was to self-manage the other unit (duplex), allowing me to pick up connections, skills, and experience while house hacking.

A skilled trade will earn you more money faster and you won't be in college debt.

Just to add on to that thought, I had my go-to handyman...not a general contractor, but he was very skilled and had his own crew...approach me a few years ago about wanting to partner with a fix 'n flip. 

.- You learn how to learn (this is VERY valuable)- Build a network & learn networking skills- Learn to live independentlyCons:- Cost- Time- It ain't easy.That said, it's not for everyone.

Do the work, learn new skills to make this deal profitable.