My real estate agent in the area went by and took some video and described it as "creepy and old," the tenants had smoked so the smell was awful, and the neighborhood was "hood" - she didn't really feel safe there just taking a look. 

Then I would make sure the house is-1. water tight - fix the roof2. all working parts are still working ( water heater, furnance, ect) and no exposed outlets or wires3. broken windows4. tight doors5. no flaking paint exterior or interior6. flooring - safe to walk on7. fix or remove rickety outbuildings8. pleasing to the eye from the outside ( well trimmed shrub & trees)This is what I learned on my first buy and it just cost me 3 returns of the appraiser to get it right.

You might be able to deduct some expenses if  below the safe harbor threshold applies. 

I can tell from the forum rules that I'm safe asking newbie questions here, which I very much appreciate.

This area is not safe, because of that it is relatively cheap. 

@Adam SankowskiBuy some small properties and leave them free and clear to stay safe.

I would play it safe and get a house that meets your needs with the new additions and needs little work.

This would give inspectors an idea of what previous work or remediation was done on a property and verify the work resolved issue, was done correctly, safely, etc. 

Thanks again for the safely advice!

I have friends and their friends who want me to help them purchase some properties (single & multi-family units) in the states (a way for them to keep their assets safe and growing) and they would want me to manage those properties for them.