Correct me if I'm wrong, but the solution to all these questions is probably "my terms". :)

@Steve RozenbergWe are members of a local realtor club and they have helped to provide alternative funding solutions but haven't helped with finding the properties.

One of my wife's uncles was in charge of one of the properties which is zoned for commercial/residential, it is a 1708 Sqf office space/small warehouse on .36 acre lot.Which with some research it can be split into 2 lots.He let the property go to the dump, needs a new metal roof, and gutted, replace plumbing/bathroom, replace electrical etc...Now my wife’s Aunt is in charge of the estate and she was the one who approached me.She said they will "sell" me the property for $30K (estimates from Real estate agent say property is worth $43-$53K in current condition) Which then I could clean the property up and try to resell with the improvements.Now if I did replace the roof make the inside look nice and clean the overgrown landscaping I was told (real estate agent) it could get about $60K, but there are back taxes and liens on the property as well.Plus closing cost for when I sell it, I have run the numbers and it seems that I would MAYBE make $3000-$9000 conservatively.But I am real concerned over the fact that it is used as an office/commercial, and wouldn't this limit buyers?

From what I have heard and it makes sense if you invest in an area that is being cleaned up people will move there for cheap housing, hipster types will build businesses and it will be good as long as you stay in that area and have some plan for keeping crime out.

Save some cash right there as long as the title comes back clean.

I want to provide the community with nice, clean rentals that add value to the community.

If your campaign is geared toward foreclosure/pre-foreclosures, focus on the problem and the fact you may be the solution.

Get out".Simple solution though, if they haven't paid for 2 months, file a 3 day notice to the front door today, take your dated photograph, and file for an eviction on Monday or Tuesday morning next week.

Also, I have the furnace and a/c units cleaned/inspected annually as well (at different times), since those are big ticket items to replace.

I also prefer to professionally clean the place before a new tenant.