Look for a direct lender that specializes in reno and 203k, and multi-units.

There’re attorneys that specialize in this visa type.

Are there any property management companies in Rhode Island that specialize in this type of rentals?  

You need to work with a specialty firm (there are several of us who are active here on the forum who can help you) to create a special purpose, single member LLC.

The duplex you own - you said it does not cash flow, but supplements your expenses?

If we're just preapproving for vanilla commodity Fannie Mae nothing special & no "creative financing" scenario, I'll let my clients look out of state and when/if they actually go under contract, I'll forward their paperwork to the local-to-the-real-estate lender of their choosing as a courtesy. 

Could you get special primer and paint it ?

I am speculating it will sustain some growth in the future with the addition of the Navy Special Warfare compound, but is anyone else investing in IB right now? 

Im looking for a good  real estate attorney who specializes  in real estate investing and has experience doing subject too existing finance deals...

There is a potential deal locally on an auction site but I have no idea what to do with a "special warranty deed" or how to get the owner out of the property if I end up winning the auction.