Since you're still living in the property, you might be able to house hack and keep the lower owner-occupied tax rate—worth confirming with a local tax advisor.

Go Google the average current age of electricians, plumbers, etc.

I'm a lender local here to Cleveland right downtown and know the market very well.  

I generally work with home owners looking for long term management, but I do work with a local broker with access to off-market deals, and he sees a lot of activity in the area.

Go to BUILD YOUR TEAM at the top of the screen and look for local investors or meetups in your area.

can check out local apps like eventbrite or meetups

So many variables can turn a deal sideways from 1 hour to the next - i.e. inspection findings, title issues, contracts, financing issues, taxes, dept. of buildings/local municipalities, etc.I'm glad to hear you made it through the challenges, and it sounds like you'll be able to leverage this experience as you grow your portfolio.All the best to you along your journey!

The solution could be a creative financing solution such as a total or partial private note, an assumption of the note or LLC, a speciality or local lender, or any combination thereof. 

I have been trying to get a distressed/value add LTR property under contract in my local market for some time now.

Buy a used book and find someone local who's doing the thing, and make them your mentor.