So I reached out to him and he was glad to help.After some discussions, he offered that he is willing to do the renovation all on cost, and that me and him would determine the extra fee to him for his job.

@Nick CikityWhat other Midwest city has as much investment planned as Detroit, yet offers such affordable real estate investments?

Been investing my as long as I remember but largely in public markets. Started investing in alternatives about 5 years ago in a variety of passive investments including some angel investments. Recently I have pivoted ...

Motivation....they have to have a driving force like:New job in new location, must move before job starts.Life event....marriage, kids, divorce, retirement....must get more bedrooms or reduce expenses.Investor with cash they want to invest...especially 1031 clients.Everyone who is comfy in their house and just "thinking" of moving, is NOT moving. 

This market is a very stable market with a very diverse range of industry's, with no more than one industry accounting for over 20% of jobs in the area.

I myself I'm a realtor as a full time job.

Like the sellers motivation due to a move for their job or divorce etc.

Some investors love heavy rehabs for higher margins, others prefer quicker, lighter flips.
What’s been your strategy lately — and how do you decide which projects to take on?

You can either get a job with someone with experience to learn the ropes and gain contacts, or you can keep at it as you have been. 

Build up job skills, build up savings, and increase your W2 income.