I guess I'm thinking in terms of being able to drive to the property if necessary,up to 2 hrs would be ideal, but not opposed to 4.

Fly here, drive around, and get a feel for the areas you’re about to invest in. 

Just curious what investment vehicle you believe safely yields these type of returns.

, Im such a passionate person that in my own community and town that I currently live in is starving for great ideas and creativity that I have and its driving me crazy that I can't do anything about so hear I am looking for any kind of outlet that can help me on my way to make my town a little less like vanilla and more like an awesome flavor of chocolate almond crunch, looking for any tips and tricks anyone can provide , stay blessed and great success to all 

We figured when we get another this year we'll still drive down and do 1 and get a cleaning service to do the other, then alternate units, so we get eyes-on each property several times a month.   

Is there a safe way to buy the property and start working on it before they resolve this problem?

I’m new to real estate investing and I’ve been doing research over the past six months- reading, podcasts, driving to look and then analyze different deals, etc etc.

Get a permit and be safe, that don't cost much and if you own the property in your personnel name, you don't have to be licensed to work on your own home. 

We got the house we wanted in the town we wanted, made some very minor upgrades and benefited from good ol' fashion California appreciation.Also if wanting to reduce your risk and exposure on your first BRRRR you could partner with a friend/family member.Lastly there are some more affordable parts of California or for your perhaps AZ that while long distance may be close enough for at least a few drives to the area to meet face to face with folks and get a feel for the market.

I like to see some homeowners and feel safe.