With single-family homes, the issues are different, you carry the full burden of maintenance, so the physical condition of the house, along with any municipal violations, becomes a much bigger factor.In the end, for me it always comes down to three essential considerations before bidding: understanding the market conditions surrounding the property, knowing which liens or debts you would inherit, and being clear about the physical condition of the property and the repair costs you might be facing.

As for JHH over the past 3 decades people have speculated that area would improve and I don’t fully understand why it never really took off other than the extent of crime and lack of physical barriers around it so as for the turn around I will believe it after it happens and would put my money in Federal Hill, Locust Point, Fells Point or Canton. 

You would not want to invest in a physical property in the zone without doing the 1031 as that would not provide any tax deferral benefit. 

I've inherited the existing tenants, and one of them is now moving out, presenting an opportunity for a turnover.As I manage this property remotely (I use Hemlane for property management) , I'm looking for tips and best practices from experienced out-of-state investors on how to effectively handle the inspection and coordination of necessary repairs from a distance.Specifically, I'm interested in:Remote Inspection: What tools or services do you use to get a thorough understanding of the property's condition without being physically present?

That becomes some excellent physical evidence for an eviction lawsuit.I see that you are writing, you have an old Victorian.

Downside = no physical branch if you ever need in-person service. 

The claims of 1hr to collect rent, produce receipts, and deposit checks also seems like a reasonable claim if done physically and not electronically.

If I was hedging my bets today, with AI and other technology looming large, I would be doubling down on physical professions that also require knowledge - HVAC, for example.

The odds and physics are against you. 

Someone physically knocks on doors until people answer - more reliable than phone alarms.