Typically, I run a current income/expense column next to a ProForma column to show potential value add opporunties.I agree with @Robert. 

I created an electronic google doc time tracker: Time LogContemporaneous time log of rental real estate activitiesActivity DescriptionTenant recruitmentTenant screeningNegotiating and executing leasesOverseeing repairs and maintenanceCommunications with tenants and vendorsTravel timeResearch for potential rental real estate (pub 925)Acquiring rental real estate (pub 925)Paperwork/bookkeeping/bankingResearch and purchase of materialsRent collectionEvictionOn-site cleaningBill paymentOther:Time SpentDateMM/DD/YYYYSubmit

That's 50k a year gone and you are losing tax write-offs and equity potential.

The Banderas Bay area (from PV to Punta Mita) has lots of potential with the economic growth and the tourism industry expanding north towards San Blas with over 30% appreciation in the past 3 years.

There's so much growth potential in Columbus Ohio and the best way I can characterize this market is it provides good positive cash flow but amazing appreciation potential.

The IRS has challenged simultaneous "drop and swaps," so allowing some time between these steps is advisable.You hit this right on the head with your answer with TIC.You could also potentially do a Exchange Post Distribution (Swap and Drop).

I ask because we only buy houses around the southern US (TX,OK,AR,TN) but we're curious to know if more opportunities to buy foreclosures could potentially exist in other markets. 

Again, if your $250k is true, and includes all the electrical upgrades, new plumbing runs, potentially new foundation pour (since I assume the existing garage slab is not capable of supporting a new two story house), I am guessing since I don't know the market, but assume you will have a lot of equity by completing the project.

You will go through a lot of bad potential renters before you find a good one. 

She’s currently not paying rent, and while she has some health issues and no stable income, she’s been communicative and open to general talks, with a possible option to vacate through a cash-for-keys arrangement, though this might take around six weeks and some hard work.I plan to rehab the property and eventually rent it out, potentially to a Section 8 tenant.