Was a lie. 6 months later, I think she's still there...she knows how to kick the can down the road. 

If you are aiming at direct to seller then first step is to find the seller most of this can be done on the computer or via phone once you identify the property. even that can be done via google maps just make sure you don't rely to heavily on the images you find there as they are a snap shot in time and depending on the market can be quite old.Most municipalities have the information you need on line, you just need to identify those sites and start plugging away. 

Or other problems with liquidating down the road to try and invest into larger real estate?

I was wondering what good tools anyone has to identify good neighborhoods with a good ARV.

I told him, “no, I’m still working to get them on the road, and I’m not going to let you eat the whole thing by yourself if they don’t travel.”  

Still others inspectors will identify and a seller will not feel any obligation to fix (out of code steps, lack of 3 prong outlets, broken tiles, etc). 

Apartment complex down the road offers a discount for 15 month leases vs 12 months leases of about $10 per month savings.

Drive with my eyes on the road instead of scanning the area for potential....

What's the resale process like on these down the road? 

I invest in town because I know town and I identified the market I feel confident in operating in but wherever you feel you can identify a market that is aligned with your goals do as Isi says and looks towards purchasing sooner than later.