Its like a real estate built in gut check!

YES, we may be a little biased, but check out our blog here on BP comparing Detroit to other cities and Deep Dives on Metro Detroit cities & neighborhoods: https://www.biggerpockets.com/...Your biggest question shouldn't be WHERE to invest, but HOW you will invest!

You should definitely check it out.

Most (but not all) plans allow you to do it but check with your plan administrator before pursuing this route.

You should check your state's laws but in Florida, the title company makes sure to verify the seller's identity after we open escrow.

Paper checks/bill pay?

Knowledge is key and I'm sure there are some decent opportunities in your local areas -- check Craigslist daily, speak with real agent agents about investment properties, go to meet ups, etc.  

I am staying on top of the attorneys and checking the courts to see where the case is.

Check your state's rules, but with month to month you could literally increase the rent as much as you want with 30 days notice.

If the bathroom was with permit and someone permitted the sewer connection (they would have to) then they surely didn't check it.