If that's your gamble, go for it but I did that back in 2006 and lost...now I'm back but doing deals that either cash flow and/or have an equity cushion from day one (if I put sweat equity in)...a house that is below the median for that subdivision gives me a proven upside value right now. 

Now as you establish trust and experience, it isn't necessary to visit every property you are buying IMHO.  

There are plenty of local companies that are good with the VA loan as well though I am not familiar with them, if you intend on using the VA loan a lot over the next few years it is probably best to establish a relationship with a local company.

She is a designer, but not an established one, more of a hobby.

I also believe that we live in an era where innovation is what is trending, as most of these corporations have already established themselves.

Flip leads can come from anywhere, there are very few legit "wholesalers" so i would not start there if I did not have an established relationship.

But if you are just doing research, learning the market, and establishing a team, there is almost no downside to doing that from afar. 

I'd suggest speaking with some established companies that have been involved in the Memphis area for a long time. 

He's not obligated to use them, but this is where you start to establish a relationship with at least one (the more the merrier).Now, why do you do this you ask, especially since the bank appraiser won't use it either?  

Places like Walnut Creek, Concord, and 'East' East Bay have been improving their downtown areas and establishing a more appealing place for people to live!