That still gives me what I consider an acceptable return for the work involved without putting me into war zones. 

If it's legal and passed zoning, why not?

For me theres lots of red flags in what he's telling you and I've dealt with a lot of them.

If you've never used a manager before, do some research on what a good one should look like, red flags to look out for, etc.

In short, your own deal....The neat part of real estate is being your own boss and waiting for others' arbitrary green or red lights seems limiting and frustrating; that runs counter to why I am in rei....Also, I think investing with family can be a no win situation....

It's definitely more difficult to manage a renovation or rental from a long distance, but it's easier than managing an expensive property that might sink you because it's way outside of your budget and/or comfort zone.  

Ideally... you would want a high income earner who isn't home much in say Lake Oswego, or West Linn, etc. vs. a 'buyer' in a slum zone in N.

The land is zoned for industrial use I think, and is located up in the Lancaster/Palmdale area right across from an airstrip and was purchased for around $108k.

Some red flags may come up during the inspection that you may not be aware of, especially since they countered with the two deals.

@Benjamin ShawHonestly at this point I have been looking at properties that need repairs that I know I can handle or upgrades that may JUST be outside of my comfort zone but I'm willing to do.