Knowing these two pieces of information you can determine whether the properties in that area can generate a positive cash flow using a tool I developed for making what I call a quick investigate/forget decision.

I would not consider spec homes yet but it is definitely a future prospect area worth more investigation.

Wherever you buy, investigate property managers prior to buying. 

Is there anything I can do to recoup some of my time, or have someone investigate these guys and make sure they are legit and not screwing other people over.

Since the underwriting guidlines "suggest" that the last sale be investigated and considered, I'd have to say (as much as I hate to say it) that the request is valid to conduct what has been established as prudent lending requirements.

Some states, counties, cities have weird water collection laws on the books which is why you have to investigate all of these types of things before buying.If you know the area is separately metered and tenants are used to it then I would pay for the separate meters and go that route.

I would hire an investigator to do a background check on any contractor before working with them, especially in FL, and especially if I can't oversee their work every day.

Check out the ad http://detroit.craigslist.org/mcb/apa/4161719360.htmlI alerted the local news channel to see if they wanted to investigate and bust them.

You have to become an investigator sometimes and look through each individual record for clues as to who holds the property, it can be a long process but I have found some good leads this way.I also suggested finding out who is paying the property taxes.

I will continue investigating on that area though.My issue with property is that in luxembourg ( wheren I am from) properties are extremely expensive.