Teri, there are tons of public records and different states reveal differing amounts of information to the general public.

But it didn't seem like the agent was willing to reveal anything until I put in an offer.Anyhow, it's good to know when I am ready to get serious that it's not necessary to waste time with LOIs and offers until we've had some informal conversations on the key terms.

While performing your due diligence, don't be surprised if your BS Detector sounds off along the way.If you think this is a quick buck opportunity, be prepared to slow down as the true facts become revealed.

The inspection revealed a leak in the roof, water in the basement, and some surface mold in the restrooms.

Inspection report revealed no show-stoppers but the overall interior condition warranted a modest reduction our offering price, which they just accepted.

I haven't visited the areas I've been looking at personally but a Google earth tour reveals a lot of boarded up and run down properties.  

@Jon Pacitto, You can choose to tell your tenant you manage the unit without revealing you're the owner.

Slowly but surely though, things start to reveal.  

Looking at your idea (at scale) will reveal some challenges.  

I am guessing that the title search will reveal if there are additional liens on the property.