@Charlesa F. you can enter the address here for flood risk https://msc.fema.gov/portal/homeIf it is in the blue, or blue and red striped areas, that is something I'd almost always avoid, some of the other areas are a bit less risky but it is likely to still have an insurance impact. 

Personally, I'd recommend driving Charleston from the east side near Hollywood all the way to the west side and take the loop past Red Rock until it turns into Blue Diamond, then keep driving East on Blue Diamond.

This threw up a major red flag for me. 

Its like sampling a NFL players 40 yard dash but for apartment underwriting.

Also welcome thoughts on the general area, future development, red flags. 

Purchase price: $135,000 Cash invested: $30,000 Sale price: $260,000 1939 bungalow 2BR/1BA on 1/3 acre with three apple trees, four plum trees, one cherry tree as well as red and white grapes, plus a 300 sf outbuilding.

Are there some 'red flags' that I need to pay closer attention to than a deal listed on the MLS?

(and forgive me if this has been answered elsewhere) "do any of you folks who are wiser than I have any ideas about how to finance a home/fixer/multi-unit outside of the 2 main players?"

Red flag I know.

If you’re not finding much about the sponsor, that could be a red flag.- Ask for references: Email references and set up a time to call them.