Well, the state would need to repeal their law and give power back to the municipalities. 

They're rentable in the current state but could absolutely use some updating.

I don't know what state you're in but I don't know of any state that lets someone who doesn't own the house sign a contract with a real estate agent to market the house, unless that person is a bona fide agent of the seller (IE a property manager). 3.

As the title suggests, I am an out of state investor looking to purchase in the Omaha area.

.: @Joseph Fennerinvest wherever you're locatedThe market is bad where I am and I would like to invest out of state where property prices are cheaper.

You don't state where it is located so I can't really know when the season starts.I agree with @Jesse Turner that you take time to improve the place if you can.

If he/she still will not release you, then file a complaint with the state board.

It depends on the state.

Would I also have to get it registered/ licensed through the state too or just the city application like you were stating?

Going out of state might be riskier if you don't have the teams in place, but there are several investor friendly agents who could assist you.