Do this one thing and you are ahead of 80% of people out there. 

Just planning ahead.

Visit your local REI groups.

I will be visiting this weekend and want to get a feel for the city and the different neighborhoods.

If you ever visit Omaha for an explorative trip let me know and I'd be happy to show you around!

There are fees associated with all of these filings as well as paperwork that you need to provide before the filings can be completed, so contacting their office ahead of time will save you a ton of headaches.On your lockout date, the sheriff will come to the property, post the eviction notice, allow you to change the locks, and facilitate the physical removal of the tenant if that is needed. 

@Thomas Kelly - I'd say there is only one way to find out ;-)  I would go ahead and lock the property up under contract and blast it out to see what sticks.  

I just got back from Austin visiting a client!

Another option is to inspect the major items like roof, mechanicals, plumbing, and electrical ahead of making your offer (assuming you are confident you can get it or willing to risk the costs of said inspection without a signed contract).

Im not necessarily looking for something that is massive on ROI, but just a place/area that might be able to satisfy monthly costs, while also being enjoyable to visit myself!