This seems like a great idea, the family lending model via an organized digital platform similar to Prosper.com.

Pipes can eventually start to weep (similar to aged cast iron).Buying a property with galvanized plumbing, or old cast iron drains, is not a deal breaker, but you need to budget their {maybe not immediate, but near to mid-term} replacement into your cost modelling of the property.

I'll be heading back to the southern NM area, but eventually I'd like to have a business model that I can take and duplicate anywhere. 

On older models there might be a part that is obsolete and expensive.Good luck.

My understanding is that I can buy it at auction and then have the right to buy the first pre-foreclosure and take possession of the property.

Get the panel model number and google as there is plenty of info out there. 

Therefore, an architect is never called for unless you plan on doing some additional square footage which is not part of my business model. 

They both legally have possession of the property that they are leasing and this isn't any different than not liking any neighbor that you have.  

I'm in my 30s and I'm seeking for a business/investing model to make at least 10k in in the next 3 years.

Marc Cesar I just read some postings from @Eric Hettena 's link ( http://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/93/topics/87122-how-to-work-with-re-agents-for-leads ) and there is a lot of good info on that thread pertaining to this post.Just think of what value you give them with your business model and what value they provide you - and make sure the are compensated for itThe gold is the MLS acess I am assuming you want Active leads as well as expireds.If you acquire acess to MLS you can scour though and analyze deals and systemize your offers.