My logic is that if either of us HAVE to work, I'd much be rather it be me working real estate where I have much control vs her working the business where we're dependant on contractors, clients and the market which are all notoriously unreliable, very stressful and very time consuming. 

My main focus is to HELP people move on with their lives and relieve the stress of having financial issues resulting from a property that they can't afford or can't get rid of.

I'll add 2 symptoms of financial stress in a seller.  

You haven't felt a real "stress test" of your assumptions.

Although I have a mountain of evidence such as bills, an email from the utility proving they never established service, pictures, nothing found during two pest inspections, etc. and would win a case in court, it's still stress and hassle, not to mention a lot of time lost.

I continuously run into banks turning me down & costing me unnecessary stress and fees!

Don't try to get over on people just to steal an equity - these folks have problems.I'd say it is OK to talk to them and give them some ideas to help their situation - but be very careful that you are not accused of taking unfair advantage of someone in a bad stressful situation.There are better deals out there -

It took a ton of money and stressed me out big time.

But this one seems like a great flip opportunity, especially since it is out of state (avoid some headaches and lower the stress factor). 

A good tenant that doesn't cause stress is worth A LOT!