For example, this investor that I met recently said not to buy properties at tax auction for 100+ different reasons.

No management costs as it would be self managed, and estimated property taxes by the average of the past few years.

I’m sure you won’t be verbally assaulted about how greedy you are Basically they were gifted $60-$120k tax free. 

For several reasons (property taxes, politics), I would prefer to begin real estate investing somewhere other than locally. 

@Brice Alef-Torrisi putting each property in its own LLC is usually overkill.Getting a bank account for each LLC is typically something you need to do to avoid "piercing of the LLC corporate veil" (actually depends on tax selection you made for LLC), but is also overkill.You haven't indicated how you are holding the deed for the latest property.If in your name or same LLC, you don't need a separate bank account.If in separate LLC, you can create a Master LLC, have each property LLC hire the Master LLC to manage their affairs, and just get a bank account for Master LLC.This is an opinion, not advice, so lookup CPA Frank Alcini in Troy for expert advice.

That had even a passing resemblance to tax returns or financial statements4.

Some thoughts to consider:If you sell now, you are unlikely to pay capital gains taxes as your first 250k (500k if married and filling jointly) aren't reported.Doing your first rental remotely is undesirable without 1.)

Worse case I just continue to manufacture them through my fix-n-flip business and buy with seller financing where available.Also, is tax lien investing really viable today? 

Can provide all the benefits from a cash flow and tax perspective.

It should cash flow 400/month after taking taxes/HOA into account.