I need to get comfortable and confident inspecting SFH's if intend to build a portfolio of 4-10 or more.

I think you need to tell us about your goals and comfort levels so we can help you determine how best to get there, what neighborhoods and property types will lend themselves to achieving the end goal, etc.

I don't need to be stupid rich, but I would like to be financially comfortable with the freedom to live my life on my terms.

I have had several clients go down the I want to buy low, rent section 8, and be in the city idea and then back out because they do not feel comfortable, or did not know about lead issues, or did not understand that buying low most of the times means work needs to be done.

It all depends on what level of rigor and documentation you guys want or need to be comfortable. 

I would like turnkey properties, however, I have managed several renovation projects and would be comfortable with that process as well if the deal brings a better return.   

I understand that some of you are not comfortable with the idea that the landlord is in charge, but you really are, despite whatever thinking you use to convince yourself that you are not.  

Who knows how reliable they were before, but if they've gotten comfortable living rent free, my guess is you'll have some hurdles with them, and perhaps some demands for repairs.

But if you're comfortable with that and it works with your strategy then go for it.

I spent a good year nearly every night online studying my new market, made one trip to tour homes (i live overseas), and got to the point where I was super comfortable with neighborhoods in the new market that I could make offers without seeing the house myself.