What strategy did you guys employ on buying your 2nd rental during the downturn.

You can't "employ" someone without paying them.

Should I attempt to verify employment again anyways?

As @Scott Mac said, you should also check with the police as they may be able to give you more insight on the property.Finally, what the the employment and population like in this area?

Newer firms that don't have a loyal following might be more likely to employ 506(c) to recruit investors because they need to advertise in order to find enough investors. 

A degree in a Major where you come out of the gate running and employable is also an option. 

Its a great place,  Hershey Med/Penn State  is a HUGE employer in the area, along with Hershey chocolate, state capitol in Harrisburg and numerous other good employers .

Are you currently employed?

What we worried about was a bait-and-switch dynamic, where you start with a low price assuming that everything with the house is perfect, then pretend to be surprised when it isn't.

Maybe try hiring them to do the turns first (before you move out), and see how that employee/employer relationship goes?