I was told this would be difficult since I live in another state and I have no car and rent where I live.  

Might be better if he has something he can sell you or you can hold for collateral such as a car, with the understanding that he is using that money to get caught up on his house payment, depending on how much he needs.

I always say/said  your markets are more akin to trading cars than real estate.. 

We were so poor that when we took a vacation, we drove to Florida from Chicago, ate dollar sandwiches at Mcdonalds, slept in the car because we couldn't afford to rent a hotel, and enjoyed the beaches during the day.Anyway, we decided to buy a foreclosed home for about $80k. 

If he had to choose between rent or his car the car would win out.Screening requires that you understand people and how they make decisions.

I see multiple cars parked at the residence overnight.

Heh, google search "car sales four square technique." 4 things are involved in a car sale.

If you take the time to make your own lease, you get to decide whether it's okay for tenants to park rusty, dilapidated cars on the front lawn.

I used to rent a room from a recently divorced guy who didn’t wanna give up his pole building, 40 pc gym, pool, hot tub, and classic cars.  

The living space upstairs is about 1700 sq. ft. with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with a 2 car garage.The home could list for around $200K, and we owe $140K on the house.