It has been often suggested here and elsewhere to pursue something that keeps a toe in the water of the working world, as it limits the downside risks, and could turn into a fruitful enterprise for post-retirement.At the request of a friend and BP associate, I've been asked to provide expert opinion and electrical analysis on residential properties that are either on the market, or recently sold through his brokerage, as there are many customers who want a deeper look at their electrical system, deeper than what a typical home inspector will do, but they are not ready to ask a contractor to come out and simply give a blank check to 'fix whatever's wrong' (famous last words).

If they left any blanks in the rental application at all. 

I have, on multiple occasions, asked my clients to lower their offer price, and they have gotten into contract on those homes! 

Hired terrible contractors on numerous occasions. 

I keep saying this, mold takes water has the leak from the plumbing, roof fill in the blank been stopped?

If you're serious about investing $50k or more in apartment deals then you may also want to purchase Michael Blanks's Syndicated Deal Analyzer. 

Also, start listening to podcasts by Jake&Gino, Rod Khleif, Michael Blank, Joe Fearless.

Never had to use it but it could have on 3 occasions with an STR. 

This is not to say I have not bought vacant as I have on several occasions but it has to be a strategic purpose (ie I have a contractor on area who will buy it from me and we have a ballpark price already determined).

@Shimira Greene I can't speak about Alabama but locally Baltimore city will do this on occasion (MD does  tax liens not deeds).