When I evaluate a software, I first build a list of the most time consuming aspects of my existing work process.

Also, if I do, is there certain information that I should be gathering/evaluating, and certain questions that I should ask of the people working at the site to make the most of the visit?

If these are your issues with investing I think you may need to evaluate what you want to invest in.

So we had to prove the unit was existing for more than 20 years but providing public records and voter logs and getting neighbors to sign statements.  

When evaluating your investments, try to avoid these fallacies, as they can keep you sidetracked.  

The seller data is useful but it must be evaluated within the context of your own investing knowledge and experience.A local property manager who manages similar assets can also provide useful data.Use your local market knowledge and experience to develop a proforma you feel confident in and proceed from there.Arn

In Memphis, TN, evaluating a property's potential involves more than just looking at its zip code.

Can you evaluate whether something is a good investment - use the BP calculators, build your own spreadsheet, identify what seems like a good deal to you (everyone has different criteria).

Then start finding properties and I would encourage you to lean towards finding less riskier versions of that strategy at first and get your feet wet, and after you gain some experience you can start evaluating different options and offshoots. 

They really do stand out in a neighborhood plus I doubt you could get permits to build in a established area.Much easy to build on a larger plot of land in the boonies, which is where I see most of these.In the end, once you get them looking nice, you could have done a stick built house or even a log cabin if you can harvest materials on your land for about the same or less.