I think looking to get face-time with someone who is experienced in this specific situation and market status would be really helpful to answer some internal questions and provide guidance and external motivation to make a decision and get moving. 

All of our agents are realtors, and we haven't run into this internally.

This is not a criminal ruling nor is it a legislative order changing any laws.

I think it's good for owner's to be a little bit hands on in the management until they build the right systems and process to be more passive, or better yet hire an internal manager yourself once your portfolio gets to the right size.  

The city is still undervalued according to international standards.

Probably an extra clause in the lease should be added in the future to insure the tenant accepts the property as is when it comes to these internal elements.

This contractor will take me from gutted house to ready-for-drywall (reframing, new siding, finished basement, new siding, new roof, new plumbing, new electric, new HVAC), at which point I will take over and complete the internals with my team. 

In conducting a background check, I learn the applicant's current neighbors hate him, he's on a first name basis with the local police or he has a variety of other social/criminal issues chasing him.4.

Stay away from these criminals!

Is it now an international city?