Sounds like a good opportunity but I am tied up with my own stuff...Under 100kNeeds: Roof, some plumbing and electric, kitchen cabinets and counters and a vanity He put in a good amount and has a project underway but just wants out. 

Think of it like buying an existing performing business.

Second, this will hopefully not be the start of another rut for oceanfront condo sales like we had from 2010 to 2016.

The better your solution, the more likely you are to get the deal.

You might want to speak with the owner of the house next door and let them know you'd like to buy it.

From your short introduction, sounds like you are ready for the task.  

I’m not in Tyler, but I know how important it is to find like-minded people when starting out.

Otherwise, seems like a great passive investment with long-term upside! 

Not sure on your timeframe, but AZ is currently a buyers market (like I'm sure a most states are) due to a rise in inventory and interesest rates.

LOL   That is exactly what I would expect from the Detroit City Government.If you go there, they are likely going to say you first need a license from a different office on the other side of town and when you drive there, they will say you need an appointment with them, but they only have appointments the third Thursday of each month.