I work as Defense Subcontract Administrator by day, and RE enthusiast at night and weekends.

Living in MI and being the biggest supporter of our cash flow homes I would tell you nothing under 30k now is going to get you a good return - it will look good but be a pain in your butt over the long run - most of mine are 50k+  -  the best ones now are about 70-100k  -  also remember we are at the top of the market for properties. 

More importantly, the administrative staff has to spend a lot of time and energy managing the property and they're not very good at it and don't want to deal with it.I offered a couple options. 

Would it be reasonable, and allowable, to charge a $50 administration fee to ensure the lesson sticks and remediate my wasted time?

They can be a pain.

@Hunter AdamsAt issue is whether you are speaking about a 401(k) with your current employer or one from prior employment.Your current employer 401(k) will be limited to investing in what the plan administrator offers/allows, which will not likely include private lending. 

The learning curve can be a bit painful and the first few months might take longer than usual, but once you get the hang of it you will save time and be able to acquire more properties without the fear of more paperwork bogging you down.Another option many investors choose to pursue is placing their properties into a Series LLC.

I've felt your pain many times over...

It’s all about finding the need or “pain point” from the owner that’s key.

The town administration could be unable to deal with international investors.I remember about  the selling of whole village for 500k€ including the church with frescoes: https://www.primadanoi.it/news/cronaca/541602/Abruzzo--Borgo-disabitato-in-vendita.htmlWhat is the purpose of your buy?