(Starbucks / yoga studio / craft brewery /boutique cookie,coffe or ice cream shop  are the easiest targets)-Activation of dormant retail sites-Increased foot traffic For B to AAbove also apply-Home valuations (are homes in the increasing at rates above nearby or similar neighborhoods)-Is it walkable or are projects in place to make it highly walkable for residents-Is it near highly desirable activity centers -is it unique (for example - Can it get historic designation)

Also, which geography would be easiest to start with?

Cold calling IMO is the easiest way to get into the space.

Normally it's single family or multi-family that's the easiest place to begin.

The original poster's easiest route would be to have the owners of those titles request a lost title from the DMV, and then once the DMV sends them a physical title, have the owners sign them over to him.

If you could do it differently, owner occupied is easiest to get a HELOC on and has the lowest interest rates.  

Electric: is the easiest to split, but may require holes cut in walls to separate the units.Gas: gas lines aren't as flexible as wires, but it can usually be done affordably.Water: most cities will NOT install additional water meters on a property.

Upon further investigation, I found several more properties under similar circumstances.At first glance, it seems possible that these properties were either gifted to the nursing home by former residents or claimed as repayment for services rendered.I’m new to real estate investing, I’ve been in the education phase for the past 2-3 years.

Seasonal Slowdown (With a Twist)The holidays always lead to a slower rental market as potential tenants prioritize family, travel, and gift-giving over finding a new home.

Also, conventional lending will NOT allow you to get gift funds OR borrow unsecured funds to help fund a down payment on an investment property.