Hi John, I would recommend looking into the Tulsa market if you feel comfortable being a little further from your stomping grounds.

I've tried to connect the sellers to other buyers a number of times (strictly out of good will--it really does always come back around) and they are never comfortable with this. 

The area is still "rough" in terms of crime and schools but I feel just as comfortable as anywhere else in the DMV area. 

Actually, no one was happy but we were content and comfortable with the deal.

Gather as much information as possible, and then only invest when you're 100% comfortable.

I'd still recommend evaluating each property to make sure the return fits YOUR comfort level, but I'm pretty sure Bridge is aware of what their clients want.

My concern is while I might have a ballpark idea of the property value, I don't know if I'm comfortable immediately estimating repairs and doing a 70% ARV-repairs analysis in my head to come up with an offer.Can't thank you enough for your help here.

Great first steps, now on to what makes you feel more comfortable.

Lock the thermostat to what is comfortable for the second floor then let the first floor utilize the baseboard heater when it gets cold.

Well, in areas where you would be comfortable living anyways...