I'd also recommend visiting those markets in-person if possible to familiarize yourself with area and make connections with locals.

@Mike Klarman I agree that it is possible, and it is a great idea if it works.

Is that a possibility? 

Wanted to bring as little down to close as possible.

But still possible and worth asking the planning department if you are already there talking about issue number one above. 

Again, others might disagree.a) Track Record: Get the entire track record for the strategy.

I don’t know if this is possible In the state of Michigan.

Properties here are pretty expensive and want to know if it still possible to be successful here.

Took out a HELOC a couple months after and was able to save the entire time (both because we split rent, as well as the commission I saved up).House hacked and purchased a few other properties with the mindset of always taking out a HELOC 6 months before I planned on moving. 

My preference would be to obtain conventional financing (although this may not be possible) to get the best rate.