For example, I know a lady in my local market that is very successful in the land business and has developed a niche that cashflows very nicely, without a lot of stress, as she puts it though I can't imagine how that is possible. 

There was one here local to me that was on the market for over 2 years before it sold at a significant discount.

I will send out the live webinar link one hour before the live event so keep an eye out on your inbox!

One thing I think I would do is either hire a professional market research company and/or get a local high school or college marketing class to do market research and surveys to see if there is interest and demand. 

Check county recordsUse online search tools like PropStream, Reonomy, PropertyShark, etc.Use local GIS mapping tools (ask your county)Search online directories for LLC or TrustTalk to neighborsHire a skip tracerSend a letter to the propertyThere are a lot of options.

I am a local Central Houston agent, investor and developer. 

However, in no event may a postponement period extend beyond: (a) the due date (including extensions) of the taxpayer’s tax return for the year of the transfer (See § 1.1031(k)-1(b)(2)(ii)); or (b) one year (See section 7508A(a)).(2) A taxpayer who is a transferor qualifies for a postponement under thissection only if--(a) The relinquished property was transferred on or before the dateof the federally declared disaster, or in a transaction governed by Rev.

You'll want to talk to a local probate attorney to see how much time that could take.If the squatter is not making mortgage payments, you've got perhaps another month or two before the lender begins foreclosure proceedings.In your situation, I would approach the squatter to see inside the property to assess the condition.

The best and largest QI firms in America can have less than stellar regional or local representation.  

Cash out refi will be tough due to the price, not sure if there is a local bank you can reach out for the financing.