My vote is invest in other markets where the money makes sense and then take that profit to visit whenever you like. 

So a question, haha, and forgive me if this sounds incredibly naive - how about getting a property manager or someone else with boots on the ground to do the underwriting by visiting in person etc.

They worked out a flat seasonal rate, then agreed on small “per-visit” fees for heavier storms.

I would also look at the availability of public water and public sewer, if not at the site how far away are those services.

However, if you feel you need their input earlier, you could offer to pay for their visit to walk the property with you pre-inspection.

You might also meet title agents who have resources on, say, foreclosures or probates…and might recommend lenders who actually lend on more difficult projects (as the title companies also know which lenders can close and which are difficult).I also go visit open houses to see what sorts of finish to put on my renovations or to look for the next house or area in which to purchase.  

You're going to have to spend a bit of time researching markets but I think picking a market you like to visit is always good. every vacation becomes a write off! 

I also looked at hundreds of deals online and visited over a dozen properties before I landed on this 8 unit.

(My next visit being Jan 22 - Feb 4)My full time job... 

I generally recommend if you're not going to buy a property in the city/market where you currently live, the next best place to look is where you have family (and presumably a place that you'll visit relatively often and easily).What is your price point and are you looking for turn-key properties or something along the lines of a "fixer upper", assuming you buy in Peoria or a similar priced Midwest market?