Be laser focussed on a market and an asset class. 

Print up some business cards (VistaPrint or even laser-print at home) and trade cards with people who may be able to help.

Dustin Beam Dpereciation benefits don't get "exhausted", unless you were buying the entity that owns it, as opposed to buying the real estate.  

Engineer prescribed steel I-beams installed about every 5 ft to stop the movement and can be adjusted over time to straighten the walls. 

You can look at all types of possibilities and situations but until you talk with a lender and see what is actually possible around here, and what the numbers look like, that's when you can get your search and criteria laser focused and start down the path.  

Also we have some wood beams in our first floor and I feel like that would be prime cat fodder..

2Family home has a large outdoor deck and external stairs.Present day: Home inspector (and two contractors) states unsafe beam joints and spliced stair stringers.Seller has proof from city that deck/stairs passed inspection from 3+ years ago.

Off market you can laser target a home owners motivation etc whereas you have to work through a real estate agent on a on market deal.  

Is the house a pier and beam or slab ?  

@Dustin Beam thanks!