My first inclination is to say read Scott Trench's Set for Life and build up a bit more of a nest egg before jumping into real estate.

That said, before I read 100 more books and get lost in all the different potential strategies I could use, I figured it would be wise to preemptively introduce myself to the bigger pockets community, and see if the people I meet and connections I make incline me to embrace a certain strategy or influence my perspective on this potential investment.Based on my limited research, I believe BRRRR investing/Buy and Holding of rental properties is the strategy that suits my vision.

That being said, my first inclination would be tying to do some sort of 1031 exchange if your goal is to continue to build your portfolio.

If a LL covers utilities, the tenant may be inclined to take of advantage of this and leave hvac running wide open, lights on, etc.  

The distinguishing circumstance is that you don't have title during the redemption period.I'd probably be inclined to classify properties in their redemption period as current assets on the balance sheet, and reclass to inventory after the deed is quit claimed to you. 

My thought was that by making her pay some of the bills, she might be inclined to move out since she is getting a pretty good deal right now - Recently remodeled 3br/2ba, rent free all utilities paid. 

I would be inclined to just go for the flip.

As a Freddie Mac Seller/Servicer and Fannie Mae DUS Lender, my immediate inclination was to take the deal to Freddie SBL and Fannie Smalls. 

My natural inclination has been to get into the remolding side of things because I am someone that enjoys working with my hands and my most of my current experience is in HVACR working on pharmaceutical freezers and the like.

I would be more inclined to offer the buyer a 3,000 ( depending on how you feel maybe more??)