His motel has been shut down since COVID-19 for not being up to code, now, he has renovated it and water/electricity is running.

A state like California that has ocean, wooded forests, flat land that would be good farm land if it were not for water issues, and hot, dry desert all within a single state has many different markets.  

To me the quadplex would be dual purpose, while you are not living there it serves as a reliable stream of income, once you move there, you could live in 1 of the units while you build your permanent home, and you could also use it for when your family comes over for large gatherings.A 2nd option might be to build an RV park, Unless their are zoning restrictions, you should be able to build one fairly inexpensive, with a septic system and either public water or a well, you can keep your costs to a minimum by doing gravel roads, which are easier to remove later if you don't want them. 

You can choose to live without ac or heat, hot water or a fridge for a week or two in your home while they jerk you around.

Example: November 2023 sold for 500kListed under foreclosure for 260k now.Photos don't show any updates or signs of any rehab being started.My first guess it these were bought as rehabs without inspection and people found severe structural issues that they cant afford to remedy, which is common with the amount of water around us on Long Island.What other assumptions or conclusions would you draw from seeing listing like this one?

What would a water heater replacement cost for OOS investor?

Second, I pay for all utilities (Electric, Gas, Water, Yard Maintenance, Internet, etc.) and have it included in the rent price.

I have had homes that were in good condition have roof damage from a hurricane and the owners walked away, water and mold pretty much destroyed the house.

If its bare dirt , it just needs to be raked flat , anybody can lay sod , that isnt the issue , its the 3 weeks after its been laid making sure its watered enough .  

@Laura Casner Do you know how far it is to the water table?