It helps to run these ideas by other more experienced landlords. 

Any ideas about how to calculate the return?

She's saved up a good chunk for retirement + pension and wants to use it against her rehab project, but I don't think it's a good idea and I can't talk her out of it (neither can her sons).Any advice?

I like that idea instead of doing my own search which I was going to do and experiencing the up and downs of it. 

There are many options for you, and I would also suggest that you check out the Biggerpockets Money show as they give you ideas on how to live more frugal and save.

Brrrr is tough since everyone does it, plus construction and contractors are booking right now.The lower budget stuff gets gobbled up by people that have no idea what they're doing or sellers won't take low-ball offers.

., to get a vague idea of a house’s features, photos, and value.

Would like to buy and hold in WA until I have a firm idea on how to build a team out of state.

I will see them in person for the first time tomorrow so I will have a better idea of the scope of work needed by the end of the week.

We are kind of out of idea's so I hope someone who a fresh mind can maybe point something out we aren't seeing or maybe share a similar story.