It must be true!

Look at the realtor.com article just came out on small cities poised to be big, Knoxville,(i am in suburb of knox) made the list so it must have some merit:)https://www.realtor.com/news/trends/small-cities-could-become-next-powerhouses/

Lastly in some areas, Maryland for example, if a property owner redeems, they must reimburse your legal fees.

If it is a great deal like you mentioned it will likely be gone by the time you find and schedule a GC to take a visit.

I know in NY there are certain rules utility companies must follow, there could be similar rules by you.

Spot on - no excuses for the financial mess we find ourselves in - we must own it!

No personal visits (meetings).

@Jonny MorrisThis is how I approach BRRRR properties.Quick analysis:  Property must meet the 1% rule (rent to asking  price ratio)

.- place must be very clean

The engineers' opinion initially should speak to the severity of the issue.I'd break down an engineering engagement into 2 parts:First would be an initial visit and rendering an opinion on the severity and possible approaches in design to remedy.2nd would be the actual design and cost opinion(s) to remedy.If you're pretty serious about the house, I think if you pay the $250-500 that I think you'd likely need to do the first, that would be a GREAT investment more than likely from what you're describing.