Look for an experienced operator to partner with.

Therefore, your financial freedom hinges on new companies continuously moving into the city, creating replacement jobs.Companies have many options when selecting a location to set up operations.

Finally, of the extra $200k, how much are you putting into operating reserves? 

However, there are small parts of "Clearwater" that are unincorporated and therefore legal for 1 night stays, opening the door for successful operations. 

This can be a great option if you don’t have the time or desire to deal with the day-to-day operations of managing a property.

"I actually think renting a place will get me started"If you are talking about being a tenant yourself and operating a airbnb in your rental apartment don't hold your breath.

Detroit is appreciating rapidly, due to many factors, and it still cash flows or at least allows you to operate near break even.

I'm paying about 2k/month in JUST INTEREST. it brings in about $1300 and I live there with 2 roommates and operate my business out of it.

If a warranty deed has been filed or even a memorandum of sale or a lis pendens, it makes getting clear title virtually impossible without the co-operation of the one who filed or having assistance from an attorney and maybe a long, costly, lawsuit. 

We own and operate a mid size REI and property management company in Marquette Co. (~300 units or so).