All of this OOS/“turn key” stuff is pure marketing and monetization of the process.  

For example I try to find out what drinks and food spots they really like then when ever I close on a deal I'll send them gifts that arn't generic.

Generally though, I break it down into the "five pillars" of protecting your assets.The first pillar is avoiding unnecessary and risky activities (don't drink and drive, insurance generally won’t cover your poor decisions) and take good care of your investments(maintain your property, etc) - these simple steps will help you prevent lawsuits before they even occur.

The reason your attorney is telling you that you can't extend the rent to own contract is purely due to the Due on Sale clause provision in all mortgages.

(There was a time in my life when remodeling cost more than new.)Owner occupancy gives you a financial advantage that pure investors don't have. 

I have been investing in vacation rentals in Mexico for a few years now so I'm happy share my input.If I look at a pure investment, I'd invest only in the Riviera Maya (Playa del Carmen), Puerto Vallarta / Riviera Nayarit or Los Cabos.

Illinois does not allow reserve bids on foreclosure auctions, they're pure auctions in my state, which is why I gave the answer I gave.I think you're probably better qualified to comment on NY/NJ's situation than I am, because my expertise extends to judicial foreclosure states and not to non-judicial states. 

Initial disclaimer: my knowledge about BRRRR is purely theoretical.

He's 70s, smokes & drinks daily for what it's worth and his wife passed a few years ago.

Watch for bad eating habits and try to encourage them to eat healthy, drink lots of water and go for walks.