Also I'm looking for suggestions on some other nice areas to look at in or around Charlotte.

This property is in a nice area, these were middle classes young 20yr olds.

Last year, we purchased a very nice 9 unit portfolio from an elderly couple (fourplex, triplex and duplex).

There are plenty of duplexes and 2/1's in older neighborhoods that you could put some sweat equity into in the next couple years and turn a nice profit.

Perhaps a nice 1950's built bungalow.Always hire a 3rd party property inspector to give you an unbiased feel for the home.

We usually fix them up ourselves into nice places.

@Diego Romero Sounds nice. great area.

If they are totally uncooperative, which because of possible litigation is understandable, search of l/t court for your location will show if there was action(s) against them.If the prospect is still living there, ask to do a home visit to see exactly how they live. 

It'll be nice to have the thread to look back and reflect on the lessons learned after the project is completed.Here are a couple pictures from when we were removing the asphalt siding. 

I get a large number of calls when I post signs in my yard, many of which are a complete waste of time.I can immediately screen out dozens of people incapable of writing a semi-coherent email message at my convenience once or twice per day, which allows me to not waste my time with large numbers of unqualified folks.A couple of suggestions:1) Make a GREAT online ad, with at least 10 high quality, well-lit pictures of your property on a very nice day.