Then I could review the order of the work they recommend with them with the contractor I choose.

My best deals I am analyzing right now that make sense either need a pretty big rehab or finding a dated home in a market that hit the target metrics for what I personally consider an "up and coming" market.

Columbus could be another option with better metrics for long-term appreciation, but the cash flow will be tighter compared to Cleveland. 

Just for your own sake I would pick just a few zip codes to focus in on first and committ to reviewing/analyzing 50-75 properties on those zip codes.

You can also search Google and read reviews.

This is why you need to make sure you review your file prior to even getting the hard money loan because what if you do not even qualify for a conventional loan then you'll have problems and might not have a net benefit exit strategy.

Quote from @Rene Hosman: Quote from @Gregory Schwartz: I use QuickBooks to track cash flow, which we review monthly.

Its entirely possible that if he sells the house , and keeps the proceeds , she could be hit with a 1099 and since her debt was forgiven , and be liable for income taxes on that amount   But you wrote "If the man wanted to he could sell the house and keep the profit", nothing about your advice is based on having reviewed the divorce. 

Have you looked on Airdna to check the metrics for San Jose?

I've enjoyed learning about various capital raisers and their businesses and interested to hear some reviews on this company.