Like you said, every time you visit family, you can check in on the properties and now the trip is a tax write off (consult your CPA). 

But again, dedicated crews drive reno costs down.If you can connect with a flipper in your area (quick out your local REIG) and ask to come along when they scope out a job, you will get more from one or two trips than from a dozen books. 

I don't even think its worth a sub-to We had a similar deal last summer that looked like it was on a glide path to closing and then the REAL numbers came to light and the wheels fell off the bus. 

I like small units (they don't trip breakers) and they are cheap.

And then throw us under the bus when we don't agree?

Feel like I've been thrown under the bus by them. 

I haven’t taken a trip yet, but I like the idea of having it available to me.

Can you make a trip there and try to talk to your realtor in person? 

Made it back from our recent trip to Belize. 

Here in Chicago, we've found some of our best contractors from other good contractors or investors; I've found the in-person meetups yield the best results, so maybe you can take a trip to Maryland?