If so, reach out to them and ask about the experience

Sounds like you have some of that next level experience that many of us beginners and those of us in the mainstream way of thinking have never dealt with. 

I’m based outside Houston, I bring over 14 years of managerial experience in chemical manufacturing to the table.

I guess the road block is just finding the deals and some confidence/experience.

Any thoughts or past experience from folks that were in the same boat? 

Given you have experience with house-hack it may be a good option to look elsewhere.I'm also curious as to whether you are considering other creative options like short-term rentals, mid-term rentals or working on projects that require more rehabs.Best of luck!

No shame in experimenting and seeing what works best for you :)

But I am concerned about crime mostly.How has your experience been thus far?

I have a friend who has some real estate experience (mainly legal, local knowledge) that could be 'boots on the ground' in terms of understanding the locale, assisting with property management.  

Regarding the Fix and Flip, my lenders who allow 5+ commercial flips require 5+ experience and the down payments are 25-30% min and do fund some, not all, of the reno.