As far as hanging around for the process and the actual construction there might be an issue with a contractor's liability insurance and workman's comp policy so that subject may come up. 

Under the category for Meals create subs:- Clients- Networking- Conference- Other meals (that is usually when you go get Dunkin Donut coffee just for your self)The first three are 100% deducted but not the other meals.

The property is owned by a mortgage company (Taylor Bean & Whitaker) that went bellly up some years back and wound up in jail!

I would buy rentals, be an investor. 

To be honest, I think it was his confidence and work ethic alone that made him successful.I grew up in suburban CT and found that people were generally friendly, I would imagine that if you are friendly as well, it shouldn't be an issue.

Should I pursue an MBA or MSRE or do most of the people find this to be an unnecessary expense.

Also, do you want to be an active investor and like managing rentals, rehabs and making deals or do you like the passive approach and hold steady hassle free properties?

So my question is, would this still be an opportunity?

Having someone in that area that you can trust and truly be able to be an assistance to help you find properties with your best interest in mind.   

I know people sell occupied rentals but I don't really want to discount it and for the price that I'd list it I'm not sure it would be an attractive investment for someone else.