I dont think the current prices will be very much higher.

I think whenever you enter a new market you should lay down a base first, but if you are able to travel to the market and thoroughly vet a solid contractor, you will increase your chances of success

Usually investment properties will want a 20-30% down payment in addition to closing costs, so it's not going to be a good idea in your current state.

4) Can the current owner of the property sell it without involving the tax certificate holder?

At the same time it's currently functioning with no sign of substantial compromise to the cast iron pipe beside the age.  

Many of our clients that are looking at STR are also looking at MTR as Charlotte is currently top 20 in the country for traveling medical professional demand (furnishedfinders), and we are currently one of the largest cities without a medical educational institution. 

They said that they get permits as each city requires and that there are too many cities to keep current with every city in the Denver suburbs every year.

I currently live in New York but I am currently exploring the options of investing in a small multifamily property.

Or are they going to show you something that has been shown and turned down by all of their current investor clients?

A triplex fully rented out that currently generates an income of 3K.