Here are my thoughts to some of the questions you had.

Readers are advised to seek professional advice.Good feedback here from @Katie Balatbat 

I'm originally from Maryland (close to DC) and currently live here but willing to move to be local to Norfolk/Hampton Roads if necessary.

Land in michigan is less than in texas , north texas.I will give you examples on cost differences.Material prices are the exact same price if not a little less.texas framing price per sqft $2.00plumbing $9500hvac $9500concrete Labor only $2.00 per sqft  Concrete $180yd 5 sackdrywall $10500Electric $8000Ok here are the michigan prices , better sit down.framing $13.00 sqftplumbing $25,000hvac  $20,000concrete is about the same for materialdrywall $20000electric $25000Both quotes were for a 3/2/2 home with 6/12 roof hipPeople in michigan wonder why houses are so expensive , its because of the sub contractors.The plumber only has about $5000 worth of material to do a whole house but yet there still asking for $25000

Im learning as I go but here is what I did.

If yes, would love some recommendations on best options in the market if folks have done it here.

Hey Joey, Here is my understanding of the subject:Key Components of a "Subject To" Offer:Clear Identification of Conditions: Clearly state the conditions ("subjects") that must be satisfied for the offer to be binding.

@Calum ShallenbergerRecommend exploring as many sources as possible to get referrals AND cross-reference them to get as much accurate information as possible.Check out NARPM.com, BP’s Property Manager Finder (BiggerPockets: The Real Estate Investing Social Network), etc.Also, encourage you to learn from the mistakes of others - by reading posts here on BiggerPockets about owners not having their expectations met by their current Property Management Company.

Excited to be here :)

Not sure about your area but here in Chicago, I’ve found that FB marketplace, roomies, and zumper work really well for me.