I'm hoping my odds of a rezone greatly increase if I partner with a contractor that has dealt with powers that be.I talked to a contractor earlier in the day that advised me to reach out to the zoning commission, but to do my best to avoid stating my specific address as I'd then be "On their radar." 

This specific deal was an older gentleman who retired there in his 60s and was the original owner now in his 90s, and moved to an assisted living facility. 

@Eli M.There are quite a few non-profits in Philadelphia that assist low-income (or other specific classes) population with first moth rent + downpayment.

I would direct you on specifics depending what are your major concerns; access to schools, work, equity etc.. 200K is a good average.

(Most restoration companies don't renovate because margins are much lower renovating.

I've read a few different ideas but haven't gotten a chance to sit down with anyone to discuss my specific use case.

Give them a call and they can point you toward someone who, for a few bucks, will take a look at the specifics of your situation and give you a better answer than some guy (me) on the internet.

If you just pick any one of “hot areas” and get started and focus in on that one area or a specific Zip code, you should see results.... unless that area is just too saturated with direct mail...... or pick a few areas and just be really specific with your list......... if you can get a property under contract for 70% of ARV minus repairs you’ll have a deal 

-Be familiar with Airbnb in the San Diego areaPlease PM me so we can talk specifics.

., do you really want a PM who doesn't take the time to give you a specific contract tailored to you?