I have a few thoughts to share:--I think by writing your response, you've identified one of the key issues yourself:  it's important not to make assumptions about your seller, their motivations, and what they may say yes or no to.  

Fellow BPers,I am in commercial RE development of smaller stand alone buildings that at this point are fairly cookie cutter.

My only thoughts would be this - Englewood is developing  but it is still a tough enough area.

The termite inspector IS the expert and his report should identify the problem, the remediation options and the price.

I've read about some new developments in the works for Trenton near the train station and recently visited the area.

For working with other contractors for more complex jobs, if the subcontractors are going to find quotes for you, you may require several quotes and decide which one to go.Anyway, no one cares about your property and your income vs expense better than you, delegate is a good way to develop your business, but supervision keeps it under control.

@Andrew Postell, currently I'm learning as much as I can on how to develop a strategy for using my VA home loan. 

My immediate needs with BP are to learn the most effective ways to identify leads and obtain financing, along with tips and tricks on buying and managing MF property outside my local market - this is a big desire but also a big concern, not having done it before.  

First off you have to identify what kind of investing are you looking to do (single families, apartment complexes, etc.). 

Not sure on the areas you mentioned but there's certainly some development going on so I would imagine it will follow if it isn't already.