This cluster of towns seem viable because of a high concentration of colleges, state offices, quality public schools and a strong economic base.

My professional experience come in the form of mortgage originator with Wells Fargo and lead residential appraiser for multiple cities in the Hennepin County Assessors office.

Ether way the old tenant called the Health department, the HD sent an enforcement officer over and found that the property is not in compliance.  

If you don't mind me asking, how much rent revenue are you getting fore each side? 

Possibly flipping houses to create the revenue for down payments on rental properties.This has turned out to be a great forum to become a sponge and learn from good folks like you. 

I have dropped by the office a few times, seen them at the property and try to stay in the loop.

When I consulted my brokers office they advised me it wasn't worth it.

Ideally you are analyzing from your office and filtering down to only a couple that meet your criteria.

but already there's a curve ball thrown at me...The occupancy inspector office will require that we add a full staircase, either wooden or metal, from the 3rd floor of a brick 3-unit in south STL.  

but already there's a curve ball thrown at me...The occupancy inspector office will require that we add a full staircase, either wooden or metal, from the 3rd floor of a brick 3-unit where I'm buying in St Louis.