I would check with a friend that is mechanically inclined of yours to take a look at it.

As a new rookie, my first inclination is to find a rental property close to home, however it's quite obvious that my goals will not be easily met in my neighborhood. 

At first I was inclined to stay away from hard money due to cost.  

Hey, so I'm inclined to say that you should go for the best deal even if there is some vacancy there.

At this point in my journey I'm personally inclined to agree with Michael Becker's rule number one-- don't invest in the hood.

LOLFunny thing too, for those inclined to buy gold and hide it in the basement, hording food, etc.

If the market weren't so hot up here I'd be more inclined to give Chelsea a shot, but I think given how expensive properties are up here on a valuation basis (super low cap rates) I don't know how much I want to speculate on appreciation in Chelsea.

If her financial/criminal/previous landlord records check out I'm inclined to accept her with a bigger security deposit, so that she has a stake in keeping up the house, as her money will pay for repairs beyond normal wear and tear.

Listen to them, they clearly know more than you and more inclined to give you the correct advice on an asset they are servicing since it affects their license and they are familiar with the file.

Are you inclined to evict them in 3 months paying them back if you suspect the place has been turned into a brothel?