Smart investors first focus on finding quality properties—such as those in thriving areas of Brooklyn or potential neighborhoods around Manhattan—and then reverse engineer the process by improving management, optimizing rental structures, or enhancing facilities to make it worthwhile.

There are still a ton of roofs with blue tarps needing repair/replacement and some debris sitting curbside.  

I have yet to complete a walk-through of the property and see what renovations may be needed (potential for HVAC and interior, but from my understanding the roof and windows were replaced within the last 7-8 years).

@Sunny WuPerhaps offer them an incentive to also help in finding a replacement tenant.

What gets expensive is replacing a deteriorated side sewer from the house to the street, when they use the cleanouts and find out what's going on down there. 

No one holds absolute truth, and there’s always room to expand our perspective through the exchange of experiences.I am fully aware of the Costa del Sol’s significance as an economic engine for the region and as one of the most globally relevant destinations.

For the value add we're going to fix up the roads, add a nice sign and fence, replace mailboxes, add lights and fix some plumbing leaks.

since as part of the project you are going to need an architect and civil engineer, I recommend starting with them and ask them who they have worked with for zoning.

After assessor comes out and consults with insurance company, they'll send demo guys out to come do demo work and remove wet drywall, insulation, etc. they'll usually put down dehumidifiers and let the place air out a bit to see what actually needs replacing and what was able to dry out.

Inspections are typically done by licensed professionals like structural engineers, architects, or certified building inspectors.