I could probably sell for 850-900k), but realize that there is a greater profit potential.

Do the research and stay compliant, but this is completely doable when you set yourself up for success with knowledge and systems. 

How much research have you done? 

I literally just started trying to read and research. 

So, the even if the rent does not cover the debt service you can still potentially qualify. 

After some research we discovered that this was an inheritance house and the relatives didn't want much to do with it.

To avoid going through the same poor experience, keep reading.Even if someone gives you a referral here, do NOT make the mistake of assuming that the PMC will meet your expectations, just because they met the expectations of the referral source.In our experience, the #1 mistake owners make when selecting a Property Management Company (PMC) is ASSUMING instead of CONFIRMING.It's often a case of not doing enough research, as they don't know what they don't know!

Regulations may vary depending on the neighborhood, so research is crucial.

I am looking at potential leads in these counties and would like to start lining up the folks. 

 I’m starting out and I’d like to know how would you go about doing an inspection on a potential deal to calculate rehab costs if the property doesn’t have any services turned on?