If an investor isn't game for research, due dil and some increased time/effort, then a self-directed IRA may not be a good fit. 

That being said, get there as soon as you can to check out neighborhoods and get a feel for the area. 

What particular neighborhoods to you find most suitable for buy and holds?

For example, my husband and I would never even consider the property you are looking at because that does not fit our criteria because of the age of the home.

An attorney attempted to arrange a loan modification, and advised my mother to stop paying the mortgage payments.One thing I did understand correctly was the gentrifying trend of the neighborhood, and the house has since appreciated in value to around 890K(adjusted comps analysis).  

Ask them for managers, agents, neighborhoods to get the ball rolling.

would be glad to find you the right properties to fit with your goals. 

You could also check to see if any properties that fit your criteria are also vacant.

If you can provide some more specifics then I'd be happy to suggest a few neighborhoods to check out.

I am trying to get into contract on a property which is between RiverOaks and FairOaks neighborhood.