you are not listing the numbers in an order that would help you visualize the whole picture. you also have to have the numbers of the potential rent increase to see the opportunity as well.a quick look shows you that there is potential and it passes the 50% rule since the big 3 (piti) is less than 50% of the revenueuse JScott's spreadsheet and put the numbers in.https://www.biggerpockets.com/files/user/JasonScot...

What if there is a second mortgage)I'm not sure the legality of it but I would also drive by and do a visual inspection.  

Numbers first, visuals to verify.

We also found a duplex with a top floor partially renovated and move in ready, that contained a downstairs unit that needs a full cosmetic touch up, but should be move in ready in maybe 2 weeks time.I intend to visually inspect the neighborhoods and do several walkthroughs with an agent while down there next week.

It's the ambiguity of not knowing or being able to visualize that makes potential buyers turn away in most cases. 

If the tenant is destructive, engaging in illegal activity (read growing pot) or has broken the lease by bringing a dog when it is disallowed this is a great deterrent.  

I believe people deterrent from buying 280-300k homes bc of the not so good surrounding area..

That is a pretty effective deterrent, to enforce that and require them to at least partial pay.

I suggest you capture screenshots of any issues you discover and send them to the  email address for the BP support staff - support at biggerpockets.comAt least that way they can visualize what you found, and that is the first step to getting things fixed.

When times are tough, getting good tenants can be challenging for them and me, so an application fee is see (by me) as a deterrent.