I'm not so concerned with the cash flow and investment numbers in this case as I am with what actions I can take or questions I can ask my realtor to be more informed of the process and hopefully expedite the closing process. 

They tend to trade pretty quick. 

In this area, there are a lot of under employed trades people that will work for a good rate, but they don't carry insurance.  

These assets tend to be more stable, have less risk, and charge higher rents, all of which are the reasons they trade at lower cap rates.

As well as eliminating the redundant door (literally three feet from the rear slider) by concrete blocking the hole closed.But in the short term I have a contractor rehabbing/replacing the damaged door - at his discretion of the best / fastest course of action.  

There is a wealth of information at your disposal, but it is there for the taking... so take the action and take it.

I recently took action and bought my first pure investment property in Pensacola (from overseas).

I read the books and advice, somewhat too much for procrastination of actually going out there and taking action.

Although I also think it's worth examining your mindset: instead of an action giving you a result you weren't hoping for being classed a "waste of time", just think of it as an intelligent way to make sure your operating at optimal efficiency.

Mindy,I am a carpenter by trade and work for a GC in my area so I have the resources to do the work myself.