There are endless roadblocks, but ALL of them have solutions, figuring out the way around these is the fun part. 

They seem more reliable to show up and also deserve our undivided attention.

If you find reliable people in each market, you can purchase properties anywhere without physically seeing them. 

If anyone has any information about the most decent neighborhoods to invest in that area or contact info for reliable property managers and contractors in the area, that will be super helpful. 

I focus on "actual" cost, instead of "total" cost, and numbers with "$$$" in front instead of numbers with "%%%" behind, and found (Created) more deals out of thin air (OK...maybe a little less thin), than the obvious ones that everyone can see...and then end up competing with eachother for.I learnt that almost all solutions to every problem (not just in REI), are hidden right in the problem...in plain sight. 

Lending One, Grand Coast Capital, Alpha Funding Solutions, and Arkad will all be more competitive.

This might be the best solution.

Remember you will need to get a Philly GC license which requires insurance (with workers comp) in order to pull permits.The actual GC portion would not be difficult if you have good reliable subs who know what they're doing.

If you can find a reliable property manager - I say rent it out!

I don't think this would be necessary, as you already have a good understanding of their character and whether they reliable anyway.