What is a good first step?

Sometimes, stepping out of our comfort zone is necessary to discover new opportunities.

but i hear ya. you do get what you pay for though and its not a race.. real estate is a long game and to me far more important to buy quality assets then taking 2 steps forward and 1 backward.. you may want to try both and see how they play out.. remote rehab simply is the most risky thing you can do in RE full stop.

@Nathan Deutsch what are your next 3 steps in your investing journey?

With many of the investors I work with the number one fear is :  Taking The First Step and saying YES. 

That's step one before looking at markets or building teams.

A checklist ensures that all necessary steps are taken to transform the property's image and appeal.

However since you have a charge in your lease and they knew about it they could have taken those steps themselves prior to moving out.

Hey Chris - It's awesome that you're taking steps toward building something for your family!

That is a good next step to get an idea of good markets, and Deals.