If you haven't already (sounds like you've done a lot of reading), get the book on estimating rehab costs and the book on flipping houses both by J.Scott (you can find them here in the BP store or on Amazon).

What's from saying the owner wasn't there and at the grocery store when they stop by to check. 

We have had good luck with scratch and dent at DIY stores too. 

I'd assume they had no proof of ownership...But good news Craigslist/fb market place full or cheap washer and dryer...used appliance stores are a thing .

Tenants can do everything through their mobile phone.The other thing I see is the effects of social media on business reputation.

It'll be good to not have cities competing with one another by giving away taxpayer money to build big box stores.

Read Anson Young's Finding and Funding Great Deals:https://www.biggerpockets.com/store/finding-and-funding-great-deals-ultimate

You can find a basic tub and surround at any of the big box stores for $300-500, or a premium quality one for $500-1,000.  

We personally would like to buy a mini farm with land in a private area yet be fairly close to stores.

I did this to focus on the prospects that really wanted to see the unit after all virtual media was exhausted.