I've been following the build-to-rent method for some time and even lived in one for 2 years.

Having a long-term rental while living abroad is do-able.Flipping houses while abroad, in my opinion, more difficult, especially if its your first go around with real estate.I would recommend taking a flight and staying in the area for a week and inspect the neighborhoods and make connections.You can reach out to @Elenis Camargo who has a PM company in Jacksonville.Best of luck though.

Hi Vinay, I own multiple properties and live in Columbus.

If you're doing FHA, I'm sure you know you have to live in one of the units.

Super cool apartment style living, but all one story. 

If they do, you may have a chance under the scenario you're proposing - if they share your concern for it's condition (although that seems unlikely since they've been living with it the way it is for some time, it seems).If you own it, it's pretty lowbrow to expect a neighbor to invest in your property. 

I am currently in the market to purchase a tri-plex with the plan to live in one unit, make upgrades, and rent the other two out.

I am from California, but lived in Peachtree City, Georgia last year (renting), and currently live in Germany as an Au Pair.

(or if they're primary buyers, they don't care about yield, since they're going to live there.)i just went to visit two very distressed properties yesterday that i would buy.... if they were priced 50% lower.  

JeffWe lead a couple investor meet up groups in person and live stream about the Central Ohio real estate market.