Do you mind me asking how much it cost and what portion of the cost was labor/material?

Also, if something significant is revealed during the inspection, and you want to trade remedying that issue for a vacant first floor, that could be an option, but the issue should be material and not exaggerated, and the seller should have the option to remedy the inspection issue instead of making the trade.Lastly, and somewhat unrelated, you should always require that any security deposits, and interest accrued on such deposits, be passed on to you at closing.

I noticed a few front steps were replaced in some of the homes with a very bland design and cheap material.

I am a new member and have been reading through materials, I going to be in a position to purchase a couple of rural properties in Michigan.This has me wondering to what my best options may be for buy and hold rental properties, go traditional financing methods, or look at starting right away with BRRRR?

Option B, as it is tough to prove what constitutes Corporate Advances if it goes to Foreclosure or Bankruptcy. 

Though many people follow that path out of necessity - as a way to build capital on the front end.If you already have a full time job, flipping can be extremely tough. 

Its a tough market now getting full price all cash offers with escalation clauses rejected. 

That would be a tough sell.

But hard money is tough with buy and hold because it's so expensive.

Tough choice.