You may hit a wide area for less money, but it may not be that effective.

Luckily, he was able to find something on short notice and on Saturday (7/9) we drove to PA, signed the lease at about 12:30 noon at the property management company's office and took possession of the apartment at about 2:00 in the afternoon.Upon arrival to the apartment, we noticed a very strong chemical smell inside (all the windows were wide open) we turned on the over head fan to help.

It was really easy and streamlined, I know it is a little scary jumping into something that is not widely reviewed but I definitely recommend B4A.

About an inch wide..... requiring mudding and paint over.....As mentioned, they signed a clear checklist but in going back to do the repairs, we did have to get a contractor to repair this..... and the landlord wasn't letting this pass these tenants......What have you communicated for your past vacated tenants?

It's an angle I'm playing and just one of several ways to play.  

Proficient in brokering REI deals from every angle.

I wouldn't give up on this one but go in eyes wide open.

Chad Corbett breaks this down really well in a video about why every investor should get licensed and how to keep both angles separate when necessary.

You want a location that has a wide variety of employment! 

That being said, short sales come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and condition, so perhaps it is something worth waiting for, while you continue to hack your 3 flat and broaden your portfolio.