I just evicted a chronic late payer.

I've been slow to get started and I realize I now need to get my foot in the door, make some decisions on where I want to start and then pull the trigger!

Always being able to blame "the owner" for things that come up or decisions that tenants don't like has always been listed as the biggest advantage.  

It will be difficult to get to know the area and make a good decision.

My business (investor and retail) did much better when I really grasped that different types communicate, make decisions, talk etc differently.

That will play a big role in this decision. 

Historically low interest rates & one's view of interest rates going forward must be considered in anyone's investment decision making. 

Even if just for your own education so you feel really comfortable with your decision - it doesn't hurt to ask around.  

So I want to get to the decision-makers without necessarily revealing the entire topic so I can at least get a direct refusal, instead of someone who decides not pass on the message as they benefit from the property remaining as it is currently, or in the future, and I keep  wasting time on the property anyway.   

If this truly is the case, I would honor his decision and not expect him to respond only to the 'right argument.'