Again using Google maps is to give you a rough idea of the area to plan.A couple of other free to low cost ideas.Contact landlords and FSBO from Craigslist and other local classified sites.I found at my local dollar store a window marker.

Open the window as a serving bar.

Let me add that I'm sorry about the taxes in NY (my taxes for a property of similar value is less than 25% of that amount).Just a few tips if you do go through with the purchase and rehab: Make energy efficient upgrades (windows, appliances, etc.) so the students' utility bills are better than average; have parents co-sign on the leases; and think about including utilities in the rent, such as water and internet, and raising the rent to compensate.

The rents even in the mountains in a double wide (finished nicely, ie: tile, bamboo engineered flooring, french doors, large windows, some sky lights) will fetch 1700 to 2000 rents.  

I believe Windows laptops start around $300 and Apple laptops start around $600.

Removing the plaster is a big commitment because its thickness affects everything, trim, windows, doors, etc.  

I pass a house all the time that is a vacant house (starting to fall apart, unkept, notice on window from county, mail piling up, ect.) that would make for an excellent flip in a desirable area.

Update, it was unavailable on my iphone through the podcast app/itunes and the website as it wouldn't pull up on the episode page, BUT am now listening to it after clicking to listen in a new window.  

That was the short short version, but I did not have to remove a wall or replace a broken window......

The window on underneath the stairs is a ~200 sq ft storage room with bathroom.