If you want to be retired and have passive income, then investing into real estate syndications, debt funds, oil and gas companies, hard money lending, etc are good options.

I've got pet pee, water leak stains, and misc. crap on the carpet.

., etc....and even with lots of skill and preparation, things willstill go wrong (vacancy, plumbing leaks, bad tenants, unanticipated capex, furnaces that kick the bucket at the absolute worst time, etc.)

No leaks, no standing water since roofers built a drain in the middle of the flat roof and still performs well.

Now that she's dead her family has cut off the electricity and gas to the house. 

Maybe not as much as WA, but...In WA You also have high gas taxes and high excise taxes.

Quote from @Bill Brandt: thanks for the clarification, the parcels being sold are "better than average" the parcels being sold are on a private lane,  with mountain views,  have natural gas,  electric, fiber internet, and cell phone service available. 

This includes electricity, water, gas, and any other necessary utilities.3.

I too was hesitant going out of state, but I put my foot on the gas and started to make some moves.

Look out for leaks and consult plumbers and electricians for assessments.