Learn why they are selling and what the seller NEEDS, to create a WIN-WIN Situation for all parties.

Works great for me - most important part is if you do go this route, it will require a big time commitment to get everything set up (I'd assume it would with any software you choose to use) however once you get through the set up and familiarize yourself with it, your life will get a lot easier.

However, after about my third or fourth investment, and after gaining some experience, I would like to move back downstate.

( A well written (skinny) contract, all the right protection clauses and honest disclosures... automatic extensions.)This business has so many moving parts, seller personalities, dealing with relatives and third party know-it-alls, the estate, seller's agents or lawyers --- be prepared to deal with these gate keepers! 

However, after about my third or fourth investment, and after gaining some experience, I would like to move back downstate.

I like @Rick's response - - UNLESS you are a party to the transaction (for clarity, the buyer OR the seller) you'll only muddy the water and if you were involved as a contractor at any capacity, you can easily get your name sullied needlessly. 

The parties involved have 10 days to file an objection to the sale before a certificate of title is issued.  

An individual in a long term care nursing facility is likely to have diminished capacity.A little detective work may lead you to the facility, but that may not be helpful as laws will interfere with facility revealing if your party resides in their facility.You might find your owner but not be wise to get your purchase docs signed by this person. 

Although I stay away from the low income properties for the most part I know a lot of the guys in that space and could maybe give you some recommendations. 

The harder part is getting and choosing comps.