I work in OH, though that isn't very far flight or drive wise.

Make sure that it is an easy flight or short drive.

Our experience: we live in Northern Virginia -that's a 13-15 hr drive or a 1 1/2 hr flight to our condo in Sarasota.

The cost of the flight and hotel is way less expensive than a poor investment.

Progress is not inevitable - obviously, in the 1960's/70's/80's the Bronx went from being more middle class to falling on hard times due to white flight, highway building, disinvestment, the crack epidemic, etc.

In this situation even if the property has not been placed in service can we take these as deductible expenses (flights, repairs, cleaning service)?

Panama City Beach is a short, direct flight away, and we have LOADS of great, turnkey STRable properties. 

I was lucky enough to sit next to Rick, owner of the Double Crown on one of my flights out and we really hit it off.  

I am a flight attendant.

The house is occupied (don't know by who) but one thing i've noticed is that the current tax payer's name is listed under wife's maiden name, where as in all docs in the working file the wife is listed with her married last name.