I've read several books on the subject, but never pulled the trigger.

At the same time it has proven very tough to pull the trigger because we seem to be at the crossroads of either going with a turnkey provider or identify a property we can purchase ourselves which is rent ready and hand it over to a property manager.

I suspect many fix and flip or repositioners look at 5 to 20 deals beofre they pull the trigger on one.. can't get discouraged looking at only one property.also drive bys can help 2  without making formal appointments

The only thing more podcasts will do is give you an excuse for not pulling the trigger.  

This discusses that in many cases Trusts do not trigger the due-on-sale clause.  

Me purchasing my 1st home w/ intentions of living in it then selling the home triggered my desire to start investing.

My timeline is still up in the air, but I'll be able to pull the trigger one day. 

I can't speak on how demo is done in certain states but from what I could tell you being a license contractor here in NY and you being in NJ which should not be much difference is do the following steps.1- have them demo and take everything plumbing and electric.2- the only scrap metal you should keep is copper, but also negotiate with the demo grew to reduce some cost if they want the copper, all other scrap metals are not word it.3- has for the electric, just have them leave you 2 plugs because that's all you need until you update all your electrical. mostly all power tools are cordless so I doubt you will blow a fuse and you don't need any light because you work will be done during the day.ALSO NOTE: do not have anybody mess/touch/remove with any electrical panel or any electrical box, leave that for a license electrician to do because thats a big safety issue that could bring a lawsuit if a non-license electrician gets any injury for attempting to do so.

For the duration of the lease-option the property stays in the sellers name, so it should not trigger a "due on sale" for the mortgage, until the option is exercised. 

It would most likely trigger the due on sale clause.A scenario that may work though is if the amount remaining on their mortgage is less than what you are willing to offer as a down payment or they were willing to pony up the difference.