I have some web design skills (I'm an engineer, so easy to learn new programming languages) and I'm currently testing my new system to manage the tenants.

With real estate investing this again becomes hard because every time you take out a new mortgage it drives your average down because it's a new account. 

Been thinking about trying to work in the Olympia area since it’s only about an hour drive

You need to do renovations, improve the property, and drive up rents.

There are also multiple universities that drive rental demand.

Make sure you test drive their product.  

after reading all of these comments, I don't want to waste my time ( considering I have to drive 1.5 hours each way to the workshop).

.: Quote from @Bruce Woodruff: Quote from @Engelo Rumora:  What happened to the good old shoulder barge or accidental door kick hahaI don't ever remember buying a house without getting some eyes on it.I've always found some a back door or window "open" heheIf a neighbor approaches me, "No habla ingles" 😁Yep, I used to drive neighborhoods and look for those deserted looking houses that had potential.

I’m sure every city has areas that should be avoided, so your perspective would be invaluable for many.Tallmadge itself is a nice city, Goodyear heights is spotty and can be nice in a few block area and turn poorer as you drive down the street .

Like @Nicholas L. said, maybe look within a reasonable driving distance from where you live, is there any city or state where you have family or friends that live there where you could travel to frequently and they could keep on the property for you or somewhere you visit a lot.