Ask anybody that has a true background in these sciences.In short, tobacco involves burning something. 

Is it also within a reasonable distance to the beach?

Very excited to be jumping in.I think the biggest question perhaps in the short-term is how much do I have to lose if I do *not* get everything completed before losing my active income source?

One CAN figure out approximately how much a property sold for even if it's not listed in the records:  extrapolate the transfer taxes (state/county/city) and multiply out.Just an aside:  I remember back in the day when the appraisals were coming in short in an appreciating market (something like we have today) we would ask the buyer to pay MORE money for the transfer taxes (no law about not paying more taxes) and it would help show a higher "sales" price and help 'push' up the comps--not recommending you do that now--much more data available for all eyes.But I would recommend that you buddy up with a like-minded realtor, and work out a mutually beneficial arrangement so you can get the info you need, and they can get listings, sales, referrals, etc, that they need.Better yet, get licensed yourself and get to know the business from the inside out!

Its not assured you should just hold on always and forever.In short, RE is much like other forms of investing.

I think missing over it is an easy, short term fix.

Brandon Greenberg has been hired to specialize in helping long distance investors locate properties and acquire them and I have nothing but positive things to say about my dealing with them so far.

Not a bad jump into investing option with the intent of a refi a short time later.

I have never been involved with such an elaborate scam unfortunately I pulled the short straw on the investor gamble. 

You just have to make sure that your property is rented and meets the 1.2 debt service coverage ratio with the rental income it brings before you apply for the refi.I am assuming you are planning to buy with your own cash or some form of short term private financing.