But don't try to be something you aren't.

@Steve Vaughan If your previous outdoor smokers would attract the "backpack wanderer walking by", you most likely aren't investing in an A neighborhood like our OP has.

If there are tenants, you may have to ask them to move furniture/stuff, maybe find a time when they aren't home so the noise doesn't bother them, etc.

Does anyone have insight on how I can identify properties that aren't owner occupied?

You might bump into some money guys there, know they aren't "private lenders" they are hard money lenders fishing in the waters.You'll also find leaches there, (not a derogatory term) it's very acceptable practice in RE for an experienced person to team up with inexperienced players to get a deal done, these experienced types just leach onto newbies and work deals, there are some who do nothing but leach deals providing themselves with more opportunities with less effort.

What Steve said.In my experience, the "great" deals wholesalers are offering me aren't great at all.

But most people aren't successful only the people who are different are successful.

How have VRBO, Homeaway (aren't those the same company?)

Since you aren't licensed, as you stated, you are walking a fine line but if the owners are the ones signing the leases then you should be ok. 

Some aren't motivated.Some need more rehab than an HGTV fan can do.Others just need the wake up call that your offer will provide.