What I'm more concerned of at a macro level is the French government being very anti real estate.

Several ways to go, your trust level is the main consideration, will he sell. can he sell, does he have the funds and can he wait.

Borrowing some money is a good thing, it'll allow you the ability to do way more deals faster, which is what you are asking, just keep your LTV's super low if that's where your comfort level is.

When I see a split level, I personally reduce the properties value.

We have (2) that rent for $1895 each - 1500 sq/ft SFH w/4Bed, 1.5 bath - income level is $50k - $70K

Unless you are very strategic and know the markets ups-down in a global-macro economy level, I would say worst time to invest is tomorrow (because time is money).  

Stating what the minimum income level is (3x rent) and credit score and asking them if they will have any difficulties meeting this?

While not "all inclusive" here's a list of "pros vs. cons" for properties at this price point:Pro'sMore Affordable for usIf I make a mistake, it will be a smaller mistakeMore cash flowCon'sHard to get lendingYour expense ratio is higher (if you replace a ceiling fan, it costs the same if the property is worth $20,000 or $200,000...so the RATIO is higher at this price point)Your class of tenant is very differentMight be hard to get a property manager at this price point (and other vendors too)So while I was able to make a profit on these houses when I invested at this level I don't invest at this level anymore.  

The selling agent claims since my relator did not check off line 707 of the AOS. 

To put in terms, my BEHR account was volume based and to get one requires a minimum 10k gal annual purchasing, that's the entry level.