There are tons of online platforms that sell notes, so you can spend money on direct mail or go online and get them for free.

Not to mention, the boyfriend will not qualify as a tenant due to criminal record, insufficient proof income and several other requirements.

They don't appear to require any repairs.  

Attending real estate events and establishing professional networks with other industry members may yield insightful and beneficial connections.Trying out different forms of finance, such private loans, government-backed credit programs, or joint ventures with other investors, might also be helpful.Real estate investment requires a great deal of flexibility and open-mindedness because there are several ways to succeed.

@David Travieso first check state and local landlord tenant laws because you may be required to provide lodging or possibly just reimburse days not available, if damage was not caused by them.

I recommend joining the wholesale groups online and providing an email address to as many as possible and they will consistently send you the deals that they're working on 

We found some we liked, and some that may require more work but I enjoy that aspect for what it's worth.

A quick look online at your market shows a lot of vacant rentals.

There are price and debt requirements, as well.

But I also provide full management for a couple of others for 10-20% depending on minimum length of stay (since 30+ day stays require much less work for guest changeovers).