Check with the local planning dept to make sure zoning is current/correct, no major construction projects are coming, and that no plans for inverse condemnation are in the works. 

Foreclosed condo's often have less major repair issues though, and cash can be a bigger king, in some cases.   

It's a complicated topic, but there are 2 major economic factors that make them a super risky proposition. 

I am looking for properties on the smaller side that I can do most or all of the work myself.I’m looking into using hard money to fund the majority of the deal so any advice with that is helpful.

We have a variety of jobs we work that are either remote or require us to travel to them so we are open to any market that is within two hour drive of a major airport (so 75% of the country), but where!?!

Major drawback, if LLC is primary borrower and student is sole member, might get beat up by commercial lender on rate/terms. 

Call GRU they will direct  you to their department that picks up appliances.

Building does not have parking spaces in the back (as majority of the buildings in the area do) so i would need to add that once i get it, units are a bit outdated, roof needs to be replaced in the next 1-3 years, tuck pointing may be needed in the next 3 years.

A majority of properties are "curb offers only" so being able to have a team that is familiar with that and has a great reputation is really important.  

Investors who would invest with you... would want to see good returns... but good returns only come from in majority of the cases where there is economy of scale....