Take 100’s of pictures even if small stuff.  

There is also an ad on small "house" which is also being rented.

I am starting with a small budget(100k-120k) so trying to understand which neighborhoods I should focus on, would love to get recommendations if you have :) I live south of the city and only like to go about 30 minutes away from home. 

No way is this a scheme to keep EM for the seller..Anytime I have had EMD disputes it usually gets solved with a 50 50 split since I know what will happen.. what happens is exactly as you describe.. money is to small to realistically hire an attorney to collect..

Starting small with one property was a smart move, especially in a new market.

I would keep it in a high interest bank account might as well earn as much gain as you can no matter how small it is.However I think some debt pay down would be great not to the point where you are not liquid enough to Jump at another opportunity or can’t make a major repair when it arise.

Small demolition projects make massive impacts.

If meaningful appreciation is on the horizon, its a different story.If you were to go the financing route, blanket loan may be your best bet through small local bank or alternative lender.

It'll take some time but I see Anthem and all around the plant growing significantly over the coming years, small multifam and sfh's may be a good buy up around there.

small town means small appraisals. will never get it done unless you start buidling a lot of them.