Local bank has approved $20,000 construction loan for rehab, but is unwilling to do any more as they feel we do not have any skin in the game. 

They have more skin in the game then you do.Make sure you get clear title.

My thoughts not in any particular order:1. Monopoly of "hedge funds" big investors buying the bulk of properties at a lower profit margin.2. Not so good investors making stupid investments.3. The raise on property val...

@Lucas Lawson  It sounds like you have some capital to put your own 'skin in the game' at least. 

@Matthew Reichert I had a bit of difficulty finding a good realtor to show me properties in Inkster, and I've definitely noticed the level of care / effort landlords take with their houses here is not as high.

My circles are small, I’m not on social media, and I’m not particularly sociable as a person so finding helpful connections is difficult. 

My market is Lancaster, PA and real estate around here is booming, so I would like to get some skin in the game and then learn from there. 

Most lenders require you to put down 20-25% to limit leverage and ensure you have enough skin in the game. 

Agree with all the above nuances & difficulties.

I am rather conservative in the realm of real estate as I am not particularly interested in over-leveraging and am willing to put a little more skin in the game to mitigate my risk in some regards.