There is SO much to learn about RE investing.

Does anyone have any suggestions as far as how I should proceed?

Most OOS investors fail to realize that Detroit was geographically built for 2 million people, but currently has less than half that population.Some areas of the city, maybe 1/3, are coming back strong, another 1/3 is so-so and the last 1/3 is no mans land.How long you have sit on a piece of land before you can profit on it, depends on where you buy.

If you close ahead of time, it could throw up red flags.As far as the "under the table" lending, that sounds like fraud and could be IRS tax evasion.

And it was used to make Crystal but again now mostly lead free crystal which as far as I can tell is just extra clear glass.

However, as far as I know you can terminate any lease as long as it's in accordance with said lease terms/state laws.Hope this helps a bit!

As far as removing popcorn goes, we've done both painted the popcorn and removed it. 

Here in Southern California is so high that you need big money to be in that league!

I don't see anything hitting commercial as far as usage goes until your building requires fire suppression systems.  

There is no wrong way to go about it, you can use OPM or "other people's money" or utilize a government downpayment resource or look into FHA loans to see if you qualify.For a first step get in contact with a mortgage broker to see where you and your financials stand as far as obtaining leverage on your money.