You should not be buying retail, but you can run your numbers on any property just to get comfortable with evaluation and analysis.  

I realize you can make money at any level but we're looking to stay where we're comfortable for right now.-- Good condition. 

I would offer what you are comfortable.

Either stay with the first and rent the 2nd or move into the 2nd and rent the first.Do this about 6-9 months apart so you can buy them as "owner occupied" and get a great 30 year loan.If you're married, have her do this every year or two as well.Of course this is a slow way to build but will work for the year or so while you're learning.Once you're more comfortable, start buying the props with cash (from a LOC or HELOC or private money) then rehab and refi with a higher appraisal than the purchase price.

@Martin Scherer Getting the 2% rule properties are definitely not possible on either coast, but in a number of Midwest states, you can still buy decent properties in decent areas that will meet the 2% rule.In the area where I invest, if you feel comfortable investing in some not so good areas like Gary, you can get properties that make as high as 10% gross rental returns.

Would like someone to assist, until I get comfortable with the estimation part, with rehab estimates.

On the screening, at a minimum, you will need to make sure they have down payment, pull their credit (get their authorization first) and verify income to ensure they can comfortably afford the monthly payments.

Just ask if they are comfortable.

I need a title company that's comfortable doing assignments and double closings.

Delinquent taxes are at least $54KMy (conservative) ARV estimate is about $77KI haven't set the appointment yet, but the seller says it needs a new roof and some float and tape work in the dining room area.I feel like these numbers are cutting it too close, to call this a deal.Any advice would be appreciated.Thanks,Keleigh