After reading through old forums, I believe this is my best option....I am planning on opening another personal checking account, and getting a personal credit card.

Run a full background check to see their credit score, prior evictions and criminal record.

I would ask for a credit back 

Perform the same task in each app to ensure a fair comparison.Load a property with pictures and details.Market that property.See what your marketing looks like from the public's perspective.Submit a fake application to see how easy the process is.Run a credit/screening report on yourself.Enter a maintenance request, assign a vendor, and attach a fake invoice.Enter charges to the tenant's ledger.Enter recurring charges and automatic late fees.Sign documents electronically.Run owner reports.After testing a few apps, one should clearly stand out.

(I know, prices here are whacky).The next option would be a small duplex, which at the lowest in my area is $1.5M!

If you are managing the property yourself, then yes, meeting the tenants is crucial, as a credit score and background check can only say so much about a person.

My credit is currently not the best so I can't re-finance through a conventional means .

Older homes are harder projects. 4) Make up your lack of experience with other strong compensating factors like good credit, liquidity, and a solid game plan. 

I’m not sure your cash reserves but targeting 2020 to 2022 is the best strategy because there’s likely 0 equity in those and they typically haven’t appreciated enough to have to finance a second line of credit.  

I have some telling me that I can do minor repairs on the property and use a credit card to purchase materials (HVAC Filters, caulk or even paint) and my IRA can pay the credit card directly (keeping it at arm's reach).I also see where this interpretation of services versus repairs could be considered a "Grey" area and I am just looking for something that turns it at least a little darker.