The boundaries of a neighborhood can be larger streets, tracks, parks, etc.A house as close as possible in features (beds, baths), size, etc.Using the same financing method, with an arms-length transaction.Once you've found the right comps, then you have to make adjustments to them based on all of those features to get an accurate value for your property.I used to use a spreadsheet for that, until I built this tool: www.reikit.com/compsThe tool uses Zillow data for lookups, but usually I go in with my own set of comps from my realtors then use the tool for adjustments.The hard part is getting the comps, though, and MLS is always going to be king.Cheers!

If you could strategize your plan of action moving forward and wanted to return the highest ROI possible then one could encapsulate different markets and buy at lows, sell at highs then take profits to put into a lower priced rental that returns passive income with not much appreciation. 

Crown molding(ceiling) would not be possible to hang alone.  

Is this goal possible?

I want to learn as much as I possibly can!

Well I'm trying to gather all the info possible.

Ask everyone questions, even if the last five bankers told you that what you want isn't possible, keep asking.

If the long-term tenants are moving there could have been some unique arrangement between them and the old owner that they know is unlikely to continue.I know a lot of investors avoid inherited tenants whenever possible but I think it can work in the right situation.  

Would love to help you out if possible.

Also, you'll be better off working with a lender that 1) knows your area and 2) has an existing relationship with your GC if possible.