Should I explore putting these properties into land trusts?

In fact, that can land you on the losing side of a lawsuit.

This property is land only and is zoned commercial.

Condos actually give you the biggest bang on deprecation because such low land value but any RE will do! 

Next, I'd start looking for a market that will fit your needs & do some research on the market's economic divers / population rates & other things pushing the market to grow & take a trip out there to get a lay of the land. 

I'm looking to purchase some land in Martinsville, VA from out-of-state, and wanted to know if anyone is able to recommend a reliable property manager that services Martinsville, VA.

I would offer it on a land contract to someone wanting to live there for around 1500 and small down payment or sub2 with a large down payment and monthly that would cover PITI.

Hello,Looking to buy a piece of land ( residential) or two in and around austin area.

That gives you options to expand, hold, or sell land if the income isn't there. 

Land we bought in the exchange we held for 15 years.