I'm particularly interested in purchasing two-bedroom, one-bath (minimum) properties that offer space and potential for adding an extra bedroom and bathroom.

As a beginner, I’m still reading and listening to all the great advice and content out there, but tentatively working towards house hacking via a multi family property in Philadelphia.  

Financing options up to 85% loan to value are available on 1-4 unit properties for an investment transaction.  

I think you have about 90 days to move into the property for an owner-occupied loan but I am not sure if that differs between FHA vs. conventional - @Zack Karp or @Jose Valdovinos could confirm that...Either way, I'd follow the advice of others above...give the seller two or even three separate offers that work for you. 

To have a strategy in place on how to set up times for end buyers to walk the property and have a strategy for how the winning bid will be accepted.

In the city of Detroit income tax is very cheap and a cash cow for investors who find a good property.

It’s going to be hard to get more than the property’s worth.

I personally own investment properties here in Ohio.

Narrow down to one then build your core four of a realtor, lender, property manager, and contractors.

I am looking to buy another property and I have the opportunity to work with a cash provider that is willing to put down a significant percentage of the money so we can buy the property with cash.