Properties within driving distance offer several advantages:Hands-on management: You can personally handle issues like maintenance, repairs, and tenant interactions, which is invaluable when you're learning the ins and outs of rental management.Cost efficiency: Without needing to rely on a property manager from the start, you’ll save on fees.Faster response time: Being local means you're close enough to address emergencies or inspect the property as needed.Starting with a nearby property often leads to a smoother learning experience.

This property could be a solid section 8 rental and has passed for section 8 inspection recently. 

Have you passed all required local rental inspections?

Having said that Minnesota does not have termites due to our weather so we don't do pest inspections, we don't require hurricane insurance, or earthquake coverage, but many but not all lake properties require flood insurance. 

I'd also arrange to do an inspection of the unit if you haven't already-give them 24 hours' notice (or what is required by law in your area).

And make sure that all items necessary for you to get the best rate possible from your carrier (like 4 point inspections, roof attachment points, pool enclosures etc) are present or available.One nasty little factor that can't be helped is that every time you buy a property for more than than last owner paid - you will have a tax bump due to re-assessment. 

This includes mandatory structural inspections for buildings over 30 years old and the elimination of the option to waive reserve contributions.

I'm not an expert in Section 8, but I do think the tenants have to qualify and you have to deliver an apartment that passes an inspection.

But during inspection of the attic, the bottom of the roof decking and the rafters were black from a long ago fire (5+years). 

If you are investing out of area or out of state, how are you inspecting property, and all your due diligence out of area?