My concern is that at this late stage in the cycle (my opinion), smaller, peripheral markets like yours tend to be the first to decline.  

Most of the other peripheral ones you would be able to get good referrals from a trusted agent and trusted general contractor.

Prices are edging down from the peak on the investment front and there are still plenty of REO / bank owned / foreclosed properties coming to market to keep people from getting crazy on peripheral investment markets.    

Also, are you looking in Little Rock and North Little Rock or the peripheral towns like Conway, Jacksonville, Sheridan, etc?

You just need to be weary of the peripheral things that may be tougher in a "Bad" location, such as finding a quality tenant, collecting rent, getting the property to appraise right for your refinancing.

Don’t spend all your time on the peripheral aspects of your business. 95% of your thoughts and actions right now need to be about marketing.

This particular branch is in a growing peripheral town about 30 minutes outsid emy hometown.

The only small piece to add in addition to the above (scoping out contractors at Home Depot and Lowes at 7AM, and your current contractor referrals)... on big jobs you can also consider using a cheaper labor service (~$12/hr) for peripheral tasks, depending on the rehab.

.- Any peripheral brainstorm-type creative solution ideas as to how to get this completed?

.- Any peripheral brainstorm-type creative solution ideas as to how to get this completed?