I have driven past properties that sort of fit my general investment box, then google "who owns XYZ" and the market name.  

Reductions in the price of long-standing homes may be an indication of motivated sellers, providing a chance for a negotiation, particularly if Zillow estimates are lower.

Seller is motivated, looking for a quick sale.

We rank every active property by cap rate and sort the best ones to provide to our clients :) We have over 17,000 rental comps and account for all expenses on each property. 

Some jurisdictions offer assistance for properties with historical significance or for certain types of renovations.I hope this gets sorted out for you in a positive way.

I've fixed it, but not the sort of surprise anyone wants to get after having three inspections done on the property.

I'm very intrigued by a property that is in a great neighborhood and will appreciate very strongly, but using any sort of financing on it the cash flow return is deep in the negatives for a couple years even though the ask price looks like a good deal compared to other houses around.

What motivated you to sell the last investment? 

So, many talk about building up "business or corporate credit history" so that their business has some sort of credit score. 

That won't cost you alot unless you do a basement build out or something of the sort.