We are taking a trip down in July to check on things.

Cracks in driveway are fine unless like multiple inch difference in heights (tripping hazard) and the window would need to be fixed.

For example:General-Filters (furnace, air conditioning, oven exhaust, refrigerator, and water)-Stove burner when the “eye” needs simple replacement-Batteries and remotes that service the premises-Fan and light pull strings-Smoke and carbon alarms testing and batteries-Ensuring appliances are properly plugged in, hooked up, and used-Removing dirt, debris, and lint in and from connection pipes (e.g. clothes dryer)-Tighten loose screws on all home functions (e.g. doors, hinges, handles, socket -Balancing off-balance appliances-Cable, internet, and phone jacks-Fire extinguishers-Systems operation (e.g. security, irrigation, HVAC)HVAC-Monthly A/C filter and drain line maintenance Electrical-Reset “tripped” GFI breakers-Light bulbs (throughout and at the end of the tenancy)-Blown fuses-Reset breakers in the outside and inside breaker boxes-Socket and plug outlet coversPlumbing-Unclog drains or toilets-Caulking around tubs and showers as needed-Gas pilot lighting-Leaky faucets and shower heads-Toilet flappers, handles, seats and seat lids, tank lid, and flush kit-Sink and tub stoppers-If septic tank present, use RID-X as directed on consumer box-Proper cleaning of garbage disposal-Loose faucets and sprayer heads and hoses-Faucet filters (i.e. aerator)-Open exterior plumbing clean out when necessary (e.g. sewage backup)Exterior-Routine lawn (and pool) maintenance-Adjusting sprinkler heads as necessary-On the last month of tenancy, tenant must perform required lawn maintenance no sooner than 2 days prior to vacate dateThere’s a lot to consider as a landlord.

He is organizing a trip to Houston for free to train people.

Also since its a rental you definitely want umbrella coverage as if someone trips and falls, you would not be covered by insurance and could be on the hook

OR do you actually take a trip to visit all properties then decide? 

After being a landlord of 4 doors for years, my wife and I decided on selling our property in the insanely hot Colorado market, and we set out on a road trip to find our new home.

your forgetting Joe Gore who called me out as a fraud the very first day I was on BP  LOL .. on my trips to Honolulu I stay at a condo right down the beach from Bowlings and I have been tempted to call for a coffee or something but then I think better of it.. both of us being Bay Area guys though we did have a lot in common..

My trip to Montana next week is facing the same thing I had to rent a little house there and of course would you not know it but snow in the forecast and so being on the lake is going to be freezing $ss .

As such, I would only be concerned with markets that you can get to easily/cheaply and hopefully have a direct tie to (family, frequent business trips, etc).