If I were new I would simply stick to areas close to where I live.

The single biggest advantage of selling your homestead is that you can take all the Cap gain tax free if you have lived in the home as your homestead for 2 of the last 5 years. 

If they're evaluating other properties and you have a good social presence that gives them peace of mind and a good sense that they'll have a nice living experience, that could be the tipping point if they're considering a similar property. 

Where do you live, and where are your units? 

Hi Jared, I'm a former OOS investor myself who now lives in Indianapolis and works exclusively with other OOS investors looking to grow their portfolios here.

I am familiar with the Akron market since I live directly next to it.

I have owned 3 homes in the past that I lived in.

If you are willing to live in urban areas you may want to talk to a local bank in your market and see if they have any incentives or grant loans for certain areas.  

She prefers they sell the house right now, as is, and live off their profit.

I'm assuming that this situation wouldn't pass inspection, but one could argue that all the spaces the guests have access to (i.e. bedroom, bathroom) are safe and habitable + the guests wouldn't be exposed to the kitchen.Also, do the city inspectors inspect other parts of the home the guests won't access (i.e. inspectors check the basement for water infiltration even though no guests would ever be living or even going down there).