Property management will be one of the biggest factors to your success. 

It’s a no-brainer, especially when you factor in the money you’re throwing away each month in rent, and it’s definitely possible in the LA area.

Don't forget to factor your depreciation on those machines for taxes.

I have a 9-, but I'm over the corporate lifestyle.

I think by the time you take all those factors into account like you are they will make any deal look like it wont cash flow.   

vlad, I would think you could dissect the comps more: square footage, locations, amenities and make some adjustments to get a ball park number .they may have been all over, but may help you make the "reasonable offer" if you can study them some and maybe get what  duplexes are going for on a sq foot basis in the vicinity, a factor which may still work in your favor as you will be newer and probably better conditon with a new/newer build...

Any suggestions on important factors to consider in hiring these individuals?

So if all goes well we will acquire cash flowing properties with little to no money considering it cashflows as all factors are factored. 

It does concern me that I can't walk through the property but I've tried to factor that into my offer. 

I try as much as possible to stick to that frugal lifestyle.