I've sent letters to the owner on tax roll.

I am wondering if I used some of the money I received from the sell to pay off my debt if that would be financially wise vs using it towards the purchase of my next place?

The current owner is usually not be very inclined to give the news to the tenant out of concern that the deal does not close and they have to deal with the vacancy.

So if you are buying a property the traditional way, using an agent, you won't usually get answers when it comes to the condition.

Quote from @Brandon Croucier: The loans are available but nobody wants to do them.There always seems to be something wrong with the properties, as lenders we just can't make enough $ for our time.9/10 Borrowers also complain about the "excessive fees" for the loan amount.If you are okay with paying 8k in closing costs then the loan is available. 

Due to the size of your portfolio you might outgrow it, but I find it to do most everything I require.

And of course the appreciation can come a few ways if rents really rocket up.. but most rents in low value assets stay pretty stable and or there is major re gentrification like we experienced in Charleston SC . 

🏡 MASSIVE transformation coming near downtown…🏙️With one of the last areas to develop near downtown, the neighborhood just south of Empower Field will get a massive upgrade 🏟️The stadium district master plan is only 10% done, but will include a mixture of housing options, jobs, game day/special event experiences, and more.When this 58 acre space is developed, it will re-shape the landscape of downtown once again…

You need to stop the bleeding.

@Karl Kauper with a SF you can require the tenant to take care of lawn and snow, but they might not be up to your standards.