If they have local properties,  drive by and check out the properties for yourself.3. 

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

Do you invest locally in Ann Arbor?

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.

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.

Talk with local cleaners and then decide.

@Bria Johnson in my local area I have begun direct mail marketing for local run down houses that I can send to local flippers for finders fees.