Some might not be livable at purchase but 5k still seems cheap unless there is something off with the data. maybe the prices were reduced on unlivable properties due to back taxes being part of the deal for the purchase.

Everything about them seems to check out, and their properties (which they sell already tenanted, and they manage) seem to break even with 25% down.

To me, it seems given the right area it could make sense.

Just focusing on the passive income you want to achieve will leave you chasing cash flow which will have you buying properties in worse areas with harder tenancies that seem to cash flow better, but will have large cap ex.Any time someone asks a question about where to invest and it can be anywhere, they aren't ready to invest and are opening themselves up to every pitch in the world on an area.

As tourism grows, seemingly so does demand and nightly rates.

Seems like a ton of people have panties in a wad over that topic.

(other than the seller financing stuff because I've asked and nobody seems to be interested)You’re looking at the wrong stuff!  

Additionally, I am beginning to believe you don't live there to be the "house monitor" as this seems to be going on for a time period. 

Check marks / X's seems too ambiguous.

friends who moved into Dormont so that seems to be an area on the rise.