I've been networking locally and met a successful investor who recommended section 8 to me.

I hear CDA is one of the most beautiful places in the USA, and likely going to be a great destination for years to come.Why not keep waiting, finding more creative ways to make income, and once your equity has increased even more, you can pull out some more cash from your primary and invest locally or out of state for extra cash flow. this is by no means a short term plan.

Examples - owner occupied loans for house hackers, specific market knowledge (ie - friend of mine that ice fishes and bought a short term rental cabin in an ice fishing spot that you and I would never know of), ability to do renovation on your own or cheap, contacts with local companies or organizations that would be a tenant source for mid term rentals, ways to source off market deals, etc.Whatever it is, figure that out and get started.

Do you invest locally in Ann Arbor?

I am not a local so looking for some guidance here. 

Casa de Arte is a beautifully appointed home designed and furnished by local San Miguel de Allende artists.

15% down from a local bank How did you add value to the deal?

You have the choice to explore the neighborhood, connect with a local agent, or conduct online searches.

We've seen a large influx of OOS investors over the last few years due to the low price points and ability to actually cashflow, while still seeing appreciation over the long haul (I don't think many primary markets check all three of those boxes with the current state of the economy).

Also you can look at local broker websites to see who they represent and they will let you know who is expanding.