Everything else; relationships, making connection, closing deals, and ultimately making money, is the result of concerted efforts.

Check out The Ultimate Guide to Grading Cleveland Neighborhoods to get a firm grasp on why that is.

Sounds like I can safely write them off only after I purchase the rental and start the renovations to ultimately rent it out.

I do not make enough money to survive from managing/owning these.

Thanks Alicia :)The clients ultimately leased it to a company.

I know there is a lot that I'm going to need to learn, and ultimately it will come down to how much the student puts into it.  

It's the ultimate win/win.

For example, a property in San Diego may lose $500 per month ($6,000 per year) but gain $60,000 per year in value, making it worthwhile to "lose" money each month in exchange for long-term gains.I recommend you start with BiggerPockets Ultimate Beginners Guide (free).

I would lean towards recommending that you pursue the deal - plus having the property remain in your family may be a net positive for you and your extended family regardless of the ultimate financial return. 

While I doubt I'll be investing here (terrified that property taxes and the pension debt will ultimately cripple property values), I'm always interested in meeting new people.