I don't understand these type posts asking for others to instruct exactly what to do, where, how, with whom, in short not even a treasure map but more a step-by-step "franchise" style assembly chart for how to become a REI bazillionaire.... 

Like the saying says "One persons trash is another persons treasures".

I agree it's like the hidden treasure of America. 

It will help you get up to speed faster with the local market than others who do not have access to the treasure trove of info that is on the MLS.

She said she would not authorise the loan unless the boards were taken down as it was B2R policy that no homes can be boarded up.  

I emailed the Los Angeles county treasurer and tax collector office to gather some leads I was hoping I would get property addresses.

I search county auditor and tax assessor/treasurer websites online to find the property owner's address and property data.

In fact, if you spend some time with topic 415 at IRS.gov you'll find a treasure trove on how to maximize your investment after the 1031 including some opportunities to maximize deductions or take income tax free. 

Also,is a certified check made out to cook county treasurer with her as remitter a good enough paper trail or does it have to be her personal check?

hi jeff. you check with the local authorities on everything. first, go see the city treasurer. make sure the assessment shows that the house is worth what you will be paying. then, usually in the same building, talk with the code enforcement officer. they usually know about any issues with any house in their area. he or she can give you all the ugly details about the house and usually let you know when it was last occupied. next, go to the utility companies and ask when the power was last on, when was the gas last turned on, and when was the water last turned on. if it has not been a long time, chances are, things are ok. the only way you are gonna find a water leak is to have water flowing thru the pipes. same for electric. once it is turned on, any issues will show themselves. same with gas. turn it on and see what leaks and what doesn't. water has a main shut off valve, usually by the meter. if any leaks show up, just turn it off and fix the issues. gas has the same thing. usually right on the gas meter is a shut off. if anything leaks, turn the gas off and fix the leak. with electric, thats a different deal. usually the only way to shut off the electric completely is to pull the meter. but, if there are any electrical issues when you have it turned on, shut off the main breaker in that main service panel and fix the issues. its not as complicated as you would think. do your homework and you should be fine