Absolutely, there are a bunch of real estate plays that don't require much money or good credit:Become a lead finder ("bird dog") for a well-established investor or wholesaler in your area.

But weird floor plans, odd lots, dirt roads, ect are difficult to cure.

Hello @Scott Schaeffer in BP.I'm not a legal or tax advisor, however based on my experience, the savvy investors usually establish an LLC partnership with a 2% member that is also an LLC taxed as a C-corp.

No simple answer but establish your criteria price, profit, location/s, time per project, level of rehab, property type, etc.

Well, I just know a lot of people in my area and I know an actual brick and mortar presence would probably help me out in establishing myself quicker.

Establish an "unauthorized occupant" clause, with a hefty fee for violating this, in your lease/rental agreement.

@Max Tanenbaum has great advice. an established roofing company may be to let you differ payment, which would be like financing with no interest involved. they get the business, and with a signed contract can spread their payment out over the winter, when their business slows down 

Maybe a little educational on the subject can cure that.

Chances are they won't get the deal happening anyway, by which time you should be better prepared when you re-establish communication with the Seller?

Even the color of their hair has nothing to do with it.The key is to establish your rental criteria in advance of offering your unit for rent.