Quote from @Chris Seveney: @Jay HinrichsI plan on checking them out.

That's how I started, with a company called Flip More Deals (currently called the Growth Collective) they were very hands on and helped me through the entire process and connected me with a lender and gap funder, very hands on you should check them out.

I'm definitely going to try and find some local meet ups, and I'll be checking out that podcast. 

You must get a permit, drill holes in the bottom, demo the bondbeam down a foot or so, and then fill with compaction inspections along the way..... last time I checked it was about $10,000

If they live at a single family house, you can try to drive by and check front and backyard also.

One of my listings, www.cameronranchglamping.com I list them on my direct booking website so can guests can add them as they check out and on Airbnb for exmaple, I just out it in my listing description and send them an auto message once they book if they want to add on anything.

Check those out first.

I want them to notify me if they will be absent for an extended period of time so that the property is not seen as abandoned by anyone looking to do a crime, and so that I could check on it.

The result for a background check using Zillow Rental Property Manager's site came back with a result of "N/A".

I'd recommend checking out the Midwest market.