Has anyone been in a similar position, or has had success offering this type of agreement to a previous owner of a property who has not yet voluntarily vacated?

If you want to be active, you will get a lot of good advice on this Forum about what market to invest in and what type of active property. 

Neighborhoods to invest in is a more subjective topic as that is often dependent on the type of investment you're interested in, your price point and even the type of tenants, if that's the route your going,  that you are trying to attract.

Would love to hear any experiences with this type of strategy

What made you interested in investing in this type of deal?

I’d love to hear more about what you’re targeting in terms of property type and location.

There are about 65,000 investigations into this type of mortgage fraud per year, resulting in about 5,000 convictions with the average prison sentence being 18 months.

Value add, so BRRRR type of model. 

Both of those could put an investor where you are today - unfortunately.I can tell you that I believe I've avoided these types of issues from happening on my deals because I joined coaching programs and had mentors.

Appreciate any guidance.Best regards  There are a couple of types of SDIRAs.