I currently live in WA state and invest out of state for buy and holds.

Generally there are multiple units for each "zone" if you will when I've seen them installed.Regarding your problem at hand, I personally would simply adjust your plan to move and make your initial plan to get the current issues resolved, while costly now, in the long run holding onto the unit will likely pay off. 

Be conservative on your rehab budget, rehab timeline, holding costs, etc.

I'm looking to purchase a single family home as an investment property (buy and hold strategy).

I buy and hold and do short term rentals and mid term rentals.Located in Racine Wisconsin  Hello Gabriel: I also live in Racine County there are some great deals our way and including southern milwaukee county too!   

I got a hold of the owner by looking up his information on the county website.

You're not looking to do that, you're looking to keep it as a rental/hold it due to the rate.Have you gotten the insurance update in Houston?

My spouse went to school at UT and the rental there is a hold over from graduate school.  

When evaluating potential properties, consider three exit strategies: if you can sell quickly for a profit, hold it as a rental, or take a loss.

Investment Info:Townhouse buy & hold investment.