You need money set aside to handle these all-too-common scenarios.Second, the market peaked and hasn't fully corrected.

Depending on capacity with work and kids, you could consider a high yield side hustle to create additional income that is devoted to early retirement of debt or funds set aside to purchase additional properties.3.

Once you have that information you can submit a list to a skip tracing company.

It's great to have you here.Here are some recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: http://www.biggerpockets.com/m...Set up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/a...Read Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/r...Check out BP Money Podcast: https://www.biggerpockets.com/..Wishing you the best

We would like to do it all legally with plans approved by the town.Any recommendations for an architect / company that can assist us with this project? 

I can't recommend you one company but if you search in google you will have a popup of some.

Another way to find a property management company that knows those zip codes is to search rentals in those zip codes on Zillow or HAR and see who has many listings and see how they are presenting the property to the public with their pics and description of the properties.

No, Open blinds, get lighting set, close toilet lids, use wide angle setting and snap 2,3,4 photos, to later edit for which is BEST.     

It's great to have you here.Here are some recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: http://www.biggerpockets.com/m...Set up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/a...Read Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/r...Check out BP Money Podcast: https://www.biggerpockets.com/..Wishing you the best

I also make sure I make my desire to buy properties known to those working in the city offices, utility companies, code enforcement officers, police officers, and others who are in positions to hear about potential properties.