They're either marketers calling themselves turnkey (ie they don't own any properties, they get a referral fee from other TK companies around the country for sending buyers) or they're some sort of Morris Invest house of cards (search the forums for Morris to see what to avoid).Go ahead and shell out the cash to get your own inspection and appraisal, especially on your first deal with a provider.

In case they link account etc.. looking to avoid potential for issues?

The duplex isn't in the best part of town and the vacant unit needs some work before it is ready to rent (smokers), so I'd rather avoid living there if possible. 

It can make great returns and avoid tenants, toilets, and property tax bills. 

@Michael Ealy When you see high foreclosure filings do you tend to pounce for the deals or to avoid because of the neighborhood?

By taking steps to minimize your exposure to risk, you can avoid large, costly errors that will cause you the biggest headaches.

Prices are high, and one of the most important rules in RE investing is to avoid over-paying. 

Everyone has to start somewhere so I wouldn’t avoid those with no experience with investments but you use different math than a residential buyer does.

Are there certain areas I should be looking at or avoiding?

Looking for detailed resources on steps I need to take and to avoid if I am acting as a private lender.