I wouldn’t move into the house because I currently own in a better neighborhood close by.Have they made it easier to get heloc’s for investment properties.

They're pretty organized, but expect annual inspections and some extra paperwork. 

In a city like Philly, you will face many challenges - you need to learn the market and know the neighborhood and the block and make sure all of your numbers are within reason, you need very reliable contractors, you need a to understand the permit process, you need to be familiar with market expectations. 

They just don’t keep up with the growth appreciation rates of other properties in the same neighborhood or even the same building.

However, there wasn’t much residential use and I couldn’t figure out where the housing neighborhoods are.

The people within your subdivision may sell the house for you, as they may have family/friends who want to live close to them, and people are always intrigued by new construction in their neighborhood. 

Hey BiggerPockets Community,I’m working with an organization that’s aiming to address affordable housing in a way that leverages time as a primary tool.

Then, when you have a better grip on the neighborhoods and strategies that make sense, you can buy.

Also, neighborhoods matter.

For the most part vs focusing on a specific neighborhood or two I would say keep you options open to all.