Having a "why" is so important to help drive you through the difficult times. 

There are many agents out there, but it’s important to choose the right one.https://www.biggerpockets.com/blogs/5868/52724-im-new-to-investing-how-do-i-find-an-investor-friendly-agentI love answering questions if you have any!

Most importantly how can my cousin keep her home?

You mention that he's hard to get in touch with.This might become very important halfway or more typically 3/4 of the way into the job, when the handyman decides it's time to drop off the earth for three months.You can also expect that the handyman will want to be paid proportionately or ahead of time as he completes work.

There seems to be a big presence on the forum from the KC area so you should be able to get some good advice.It looks like you have your WHY figured out, -- an extremely important motivator.

Thanks in advance, Henry  If you stick to the bigger names / more established brands in the industry you will be more likely avoid things like false advertising.Super important to note that real estate is a people business though.

It's important in my opinion to know why you're looking to buy properties.

Are you aware that the country is living through an important security crisis since about 3 years ago?

I think it is probably more important to get a great deal than it is to decide where or what kind of deal it should be. 

That is important.