The advice of building credit by getting a credit card would work over a year to 18 months the question is though if she can actually afford a mortgage payment?

Be honest when the last time you bought something on Amazon and didn't read any reviews or even gandered at how many stars the product has.

Under this exception, users of consumer reports, including financial institutions, may share information if they are jointly involved in the decision to approve a consumer’s request for a product or service, provided that each has a permissible purpose to obtain a consumer report on the individual.

Why this is supreme is because you can literally capture somebody's attention at the moment that they are looking for information about your service or product.

I just can't afford the hit right now

I also agree with @Lee Ripma that a small multifamily can be even more lucrative since you can gain more in rent, but affordable inventory of 2-4plexes in desirable areas in KC seems to be low right now, which makes it tough to find a deal.

Health issues, can no longer afford the home.

How to I find active and productive Real Estate Investors in my local area outside of REIAs?

I don't know what they are paying for rent but $290,000 might be a bit steep for them, I have seen this many times where tenants vastly overestimate what they can afford and think they can buy the house where they are renting. 

If you want something more affordable and would like to avoid a bidding war, the Pierce County area as mentioned above would be fantastic.