I invest there myself quite a bit (just bought another duplex last week) and do a ton outside my own portfolio as well.Definitely take the time to understand the market or interview several teams before working with anyone.I'm happy to shoot you some Detroit specific resources that would help a ton.

I think that it depends on the closing date and how long it will take the HELOC to close, I know that if I could go back, I would have done a HELOC a long time ago, it can be a great asset to build you portfolio and if I were you and I had the option, I would doi it regardless of the outcome of this next deal. 

I’ve specifically asked one insurance broker if there is such a thing as a blanket earthquake policy and there doesn’t appear to be.

Not a specific area on the site but you can just post and ask about meeting investors who are active in whatever market you’re interested in.

Additional information: rZoning permit from 1/16/1956 with a variance granting this as a 3 family unitI have no building permit saying this allows this as a 3 familyI am asking for any advice specifically for Philadelphia, PA.

Refinished the original floors (massive value increase), fixed the heating and air system, painted all rooms, cleaned up the yard for curb appeal What was the outcome?

What was the outcome?

I'm interested in buying a vacation rental in the area, I do not have any specific property picked out at this time. 

Refinished the original floors (massive value increase), fixed the heating and air system, painted all rooms, cleaned up the yard for curb appeal What was the outcome?

Are you looking to get into a specific real estate profession (investor, PM, agent, construction, etc) or planning to do it on the side?