If you can come to the city to visit that helps but often, as a majority of properties are "curb offers only", buyers will come out for inspections after the offer is made and then go home and complete the rest of deal form there.

Start at the curb, look up and down the street and across the street; is the subject property of like size, age and condition as other properties on the street?  

Also you mentioned raising the rent after some changes so that should boost value.

Been very blessed but want to start using this to boost our investing as well.

One of the things that has really helped me has been to bring a friend or my husband along, it helps boost my confidence because I have someone to catch me in case the conversation becomes awkward.

Now, I would never suggest you trespass or illegally enter a property that you don't own...but I bet you can get a lot of info from the curb.

The beauty of Real Estate, however, is that with some knowledge, hustle, and/or relationships can greatly boost your expected return.

For example, ceiling fans in the master bedroom and family room, improving the curb appeal and the front entrance area, fresh paint, etc. 

“That feeling has translated or transcended into Tucson.”The growth in the local economy has boosted confidence and fueled the office and industrial markets, which in turn aids in retail and even residential real estate.

Good credit will give you that boost you need in life in general, not just in your investment endeavors.