Start by talking to a cross-border CPA and attorney to handle taxes and legal structures properly.

Make sure to account for property taxes, insurance, and any HOA fees, as those can vary significantly in different markets and impact your cash flow.

But there are some basic bid issues owners are often unreasonable about:1) There really isn't time to get multiple bids- No heat during winter or ac during summer can often result in a municipal ticket or worse2) The job is too small to get bids- Estimated cost is $700 - how is saving 5-10% worth the time getting bids?

Thank you for putting it out there and potentially saving someone else in the future. 

I would sit tight and save some more.

However , properties taxes are due like roughly 12k for the two lots. 

Eliminate debt, establish a budget, and save.

Their property sat vacant for a few months while their guy "saved them money".

Positives are proximity, low property taxes, no income taxes, no weather events, very low maintenance stucco/tile structures, “young” properties (5-20 years old) 

A HELOC on your duplex or home offers flexible, low-interest financing ideal for BRRRR, with potential tax-deductible interest if used for property expenses.