Your price range is on the extreme low end and I wouldn't be surprised if you only find 1/1 units at that range.

When I arrived the property it was extremely overgrown and you couldn’t get to the back of the house.

When market is extremely high it is ok to be creative in order to make good return on investment.

You'll have to come to grips with the fact that NO ONE will do everything the way you do it.Somethings a PMC will actually do better, but they won't do the extreme hand-holding of tenants that many DIY landlords do.

If anyone could direct me to the correct pdf/contract or library of legal docs would be extremely appreciated.StatsAppraisal $179,000Purchase $80,000Finder fee $20,000 (paid to Florida friend in the back end)*yes, $79,000 in immediate equity, as-is*Loan #1 30Dec2022 close datePurchase $80,000Closing $0.00Taxes $250 prorated Dec22 Misc $2,000 Total loan amount $82,250Term 11.5% over 12mosPayment is full at agreement payoff. 

Does one need to step-up the costs basis somehow to restart the depreciation benefits if past owner has likely exhausted depreciation on their basis?

The terms are extremely one-sided and I was dealing with a closing agent, unable to speak with the seller or sellers attorney.

If you want to make money in NJ it will be extremely tough unless you plan on being hands on.  

Also, I am extremely interested in networking with people in my area, and would love to hear from any local investors.

I am preparing myself to buy my second property (currently house hacking), but my local market is extremely expensive.