In SA we find most SFR bring an average of 20%+ CCR (cash on cash return) so figure out what return you're targeting.The biggest thing you can do is attending local REIAs and see what other people are doing.

I'm only child very small family so this is like the biggest life project to date.

@Thomas Fawole- Another challenge you will have too (probably your biggest one) is getting investors to partner-up with you and buy something that is perceived to be in a war zone.  

Little incentive for heirs to do a short sale.  

I am still very new to all of this, but the funding right now would be the biggest hurdle.

There are a few reasons to do sub-tos but 2 of the biggest is that the term will be LESS than 30 years.

The seller's ex husband currently occupies the house but can't afford the mortgage and would like to move ASAP.My Strategy Is to:Purchase Subject to, get on title to start the 90 day seasoningRent the house to the current occupant on a month to month lease less than the current mortgage payment (incentive to stay, be corporative with Sub to, and subsidize holding cost during the mandatory seasoning)Begin marketing the house immediatelySell to a VA Loan buyer immediately after required seasoning Both sellers are on title but wife has exclusive discretion for sell of house.

You might consider some kind of earn out so the current owner had a defined financial incentive to remain engaged during a defined transition period.

The biggest question is on tax liability.

The biggest difference in see in Bend's RE market today vs 2007 is the strength of the buyers right now.