And I realize your holding costs are the opportunity costs of lost gains in current securities, but if you compared to risk withhard money borrowed funds, you are in much better shape!

There are so many opportunities to do that here in Detroit and I know the area I would love to do it in.My challenge is getting a mortgage when the house is not in perfect condition. 

I'm sure you'll get better insights in to this, but since it's been quiet for a few days here are some things I would consider:- Opportunity cost.

If so this might be an excellent opportunity.  

However, with the appreciation I see a lot of opportunity to cash flow a decent amount with out of state investing.

You will ultimate have to buy all your cash flow at a very high loss due to the opportunity value of that equity.

Go grab your signs and throw them away.Of, if you're willing to engage in criminal activities to make a buck, look for more profitable opportunities than bandit signs and wholesaling. 

I’m coming back to Ohio in December for a month ir two to network and look at local opportunities.

This is an opportunity for you to get a feel for (1) do they meet the requirements.

Sadly, living in Manhattan and California all my early working years and through my 20's (ridiculous rents and millennial lifestyle...) has left me with little opportunity to save, let alone save anything remotely close enough to a downpayment in areas where studios and 1 bdrms start at well over half a million dollars...This being said, I'm very interested in learning as much as I can about real estate (especially on the smaller scale - such as SFH and perhaps duplexes...).