It sounds like this company quoted you to install interior drain tiles, not sure what other foundation issues you might have. 

Did you design and pick out all fixtures/finishes/cabinets/tile work?

And since we are learning about construction, being able to go after work and measure cabinets for the 4th time, or compare the tile to the grout, or pick up supplies so your expensive contractor doesn't have to waste his time picking out paint colors, flooring, appliance etc... are all things that are easier to do in person.If you have a lot of experience flipping houses, or working construction,  then yes go for it, you can be successful as a long distance landlord. 

The house was built in 2003.My question is the auction is ‘cash only’ and I don’t have that kind of money laying around.

I work 9-5 so if they can do a weekend or evening that would be even better.Also, I will be eventually looking for a guy to lay some Luxury Vinyl plank flooring in the house.

Often times buyers who are going to live in a Neighborhood of $100,000 homes usually don't have that 10k cash laying around. 

You would probably not need an architect if you are just swapping cabinets, tile, floors, etc.

But I was only 28 years old at the time, it was 40 years ago, and how would a kid with a $30K salary explain several hundred thousand in cash laying around.

A tile needed to be put back (drop ceilings) and there were two electrical issues.

The IRS lays out a guideline for family loans which I think is the AFR, which is usually below the market rates.My understanding with regard to 1031 transactions is that the party needs to be the same on both sides.