In addition, the federal government at the time would even give away land for free.  

No problem getting them financed.I suspect this is a hybrid of Manufactured home and stick built add on .. not sure where that falls. but buy a manufactured or factory built home and affixing it to a permanent  foundation creates a home that is financeable like any other.. at least in all the one's I have done.. and will continue to do in your fair city.Also in Charleston SC were I am quite active there are a lot of factory built homes.. they are different than the west coast trailer style but none the less they are factory built.

In addition, even if they did use meth they may not have done it in the property. 

In addition, for the ones that do make it to the market, owner-occupants face stiff competition from the plethora of investors in the NYC area. 

That way, if anything major is discovered, you'll have time to assess the situation and obtain additional inspections from other specialists as necessary.

The way we look at it, if hard money can enable us to purchase additional properties more easily or with less of our own cash, then it can make sense.At this time we are actively looking for our third buy/hold.

@Risa Hind I'd like to second what @Ken Badziak has said (and of course I always like a guy that BP's with a glass of wine in hand ;) I would like to point out, however, that in addition to all the taxation issues you have the issue of reserves to consider.

It was completely rehabbed with an additional  $150k.  

It was originally a duplex, but additional rooms were added.

Prior to applying for any additional business licenses in the City of Philadelphia, you will first need to obtain an Activity License.