Photos, video and reviews should be sufficient. 

Every lead source that sends you leads without vetting them is warm garbage now.

This website would include a walk-through video, more photos, information on what to do in the area, shopping recommendations, places to go, and things to see.

Having a tangible property to discuss often leads to a much more constructive discussion.

Jumping into a deal just because it feels like you "need" to can be tempting, but as your story highlights, it doesn’t always lead to the returns we hope for no matter how hard we try and convince ourselves that we know everything, it is like the universe pushing the other way around against us.I especially appreciate your point about really knowing your market.

For lead gen, I’ve had good luck with a few tools.

Check the section 8 checklist and be sure you will pass (do you have a lead cert if you need one, do all your bedrooms count as bedrooms, anything weird about the house that won't pass inspection? 

Look for one that includes a training video to ensure you understand how to best use it.

@Megan Mason recommend you watch some of the videos from @James Wise youtube channel on S8 evictions.We've been dealing with S8 tenants for over 20 years and they are NOT a cure-all for rent collection challenges.Since rents in Class A & B areas exceed S8 limits, most of your S8 rentals are going to be in Class C/D areas. 

That could lead to future fix and flips or BRRRRs.