Population 10,500Duplex both units identical 3b2ba 1300 sq ft each. 1 car garage eachThere’s 2 other 3b2ba single family houses listed for rent at $1,100 and $1,200 (they have been rehabbed.)I believe rent could be $700/$750Property 2: $180,000Located in Sierra Vista, Arizona.

I was told this would be difficult since I live in another state and I have no car and rent where I live.  

He cant pay his mortgage now, and when he cant make rent to you later, you will be in the unfortunate position of evicting your friend. 

I always say/said  your markets are more akin to trading cars than real estate.. 

We were so poor that when we took a vacation, we drove to Florida from Chicago, ate dollar sandwiches at Mcdonalds, slept in the car because we couldn't afford to rent a hotel, and enjoyed the beaches during the day.Anyway, we decided to buy a foreclosed home for about $80k. 

If he had to choose between rent or his car the car would win out.Screening requires that you understand people and how they make decisions.

Not many headaches and our owners make 1-2 months extra rent every time the tenant leaves early so it's a nice money maker.

I see multiple cars parked at the residence overnight.

Heh, google search "car sales four square technique." 4 things are involved in a car sale.

Some STR are not real money makers but that sounds like they are saying outright you are going to pay $2000 for the opportunity to use it yourself and you should be happy to do so...