Yes, if he gave you the lockbox code you should AT LEAST drive by the property.  

Insurance for REI has two flavors:to cover the mortgage (aka the loss payee) and property lossto protect you're liabilityWhen a tenant burnt an upper unit, FARMERS was aces in funding the restoration.If a tenant (or their guests) get injured on your property, the WILL see you as deep pockets and go for your money. 

When you know if market is flipping, get a list of homes on market and see drive by them to see for your self.

I just started driving around the city and I stopped at buildings that it seemed needed work at I knocked on doors to get info about the owners.

hello BP family. i do a lot of driving for dollars.  

Look at areas on zillow/red fin you think you might be interested in and then drive around them.

I have so many questions but the drive needed to become a success!

What happens if we go into a deep recession, (Which is never out of the question) and you lose your job?

I believe a lot of investors steer clear because of the high unemployment and crime, I think investing in Baltimore provides employment opportunities for local businesses and making affordable homes available to families helps stabilize communities and hopefully drives demand. 

Try driving for dollars.