What I did when I graduated from college is stabilized my income/finances for about a year while I saved up and started doing market research. 

So the plan is to try and pick up this plot of land for 80-100k.

If they get paid up-front, how hard will they work to make the deal profitable? 

I would like to use short term rentals to free up some of my time to spend with my growing family.I am interested in learning everything I can as I look for my first property.

I'll also keep up with door-knocking, which I typically do on weekends.

You've already gone above and beyond, but it seems you just dig up more problems.When you run a credit/criminal background, the credit report should list the applicant's current and previous addresses.

@Daniel Slayton - did you end up moving forward?

Being a renovator will give you leg up as a investor. 

If the property is close to White River Pkwy (just across the river) you'll find better tenants and higher rent.

Create a savings plan for down payment, closing costs, and reserves.