Create a simple spreadsheet or written list to compare the features of each and identify the ones that align with your requirements.

I only own one rental.

Under the IRS rules, a person  qualifies as a real estate professional if: (1) more than one-half of the personal services the taxpayer performs in trades or businesses during the tax year are in real property trades or businesses in which the taxpayer materially participates, AND.....(2) hours spent providing personal services in real property trades or businesses in which the taxpayer materially participates total more than 750 during the tax year.Like @Greg Scott and @Russell Brazil mentioned above, I don't believe that you would qualify as a REPS, but if you are going to try it, make sure you document it very well (i.e. with some kind of proof, like time cards, mileage forms, and/or receipts, etc.) so that just in case you do get audited, you at least have something to provide to the IRS agent. 

The house on one side is nearly 500k and the house on the other side is about 700k.

Finding a good script or preparing one will likely help you with this endeavor.

One of my friends is interested in a foreclosure, but my MLS only lists pre-foreclosures.  

There is a big difference and you don't sound like you know which one it is.

It’s a 3 hour drive one way.

Hopefully they decide to stop smoking instead and all is good. 

One renter is going to get one bathroom for three bedrooms.