But you also benefit (historically speaking, only) from a higher capital appreciation rate than other markets. 

High asking price, poor quality photos, and inability to access the property for showings are oftentimes the main reason why a listing expires.Best of luck to you on this deal and future deals!

Furthermore, a contigent offer gets passed over due to all of the multiple offer situations we are seeing for quality homes.

Ask to speak with some of their current owners and current/former tenants.

I agree with @James Wise, you don't want to compete like that.I've always been an advocate for quality over quantity and Redfin is purely the latter. 

Do I need to get it surveyed, or first speak with an architect?

Zillow will call your phone number the next 3 days to verify the ownership and speak with you over the phone before they present an offer to you.

Generally speaking it takes about 8-12 years for an area that is reeling from economic struggles to recover, unless there is an influx of new businesses or a new industry coming to the area.

I saw on your profile you speak Spanish, so do I and my wife.

All the equipment and knowledge are there to do those extraction and quality control.