Problem is I know how to code about as well as a chimp knows how to drive Nascar, lol. 

People wanting to be investors and having no capital somehow all want to believe they can be successful “driving for dollars” or “putting up 10 signs”.  

And if you get one renter that is annoying but doesn't do anything to specifically break the lease, he/she might drive off all your good tenants at the same time.

I'm trying to get a feel on who drives the decision on lodging for these crews. 

Money isn't a driving factor for me anymore.

For duplex/land deals, check out county auctions and drive neighborhoods for off-market gems.

I knew that investing locally was out of the question due to capital restrictions so my goal was to invest in markets out of state that are no more than a 2 hour flight or about 8 hour drive away from where I live.

These goals should drive all your investment decisions.

Where I have hit a brick wall is, there aren't any investment opportunities locally (within one hour driving from me).

Focus on sourcing off-market deals through proven channels: drive for dollars, pull niche lists (vacant, probate, pre-foreclosure), and connect with people that can bring you deals or make connections for you like bird dogs.