I later found out that his ex-girlfriend had been trying to talk him out of it, and he was not capable of doing physical labor.

Just a thought many will want to help you but you have to be mindful of the amount of work your asking for and the very small commission that are made on mid west propertiesI don't think my list is that unusual for an out-of-state investor, since all out-of-state investors need people on the ground floor to physically do these things?

When I took a look at it, it was a spiderweb style crack, right where you would stand to shower.This is my first tenant since acquiring the property, and I have no significant physical proof that the crack didn't already exist.

Explain to the agent that you will only agree to work with the agent on properties they physically show you...otherwise, you're free to purchase any property on your own or through another broker.  

There is really a great Application  (app)--- BUT it is somewhat primitive - when mastered - it will be the best Application ever to make money with -  It could be expensive and take time to learn how to apply all the functions keys.The functions keys are easy to read  -- (but will take time to learn)Input dataValue - comparable sales and insights -  Time - liquidation period -Marketing CostEstimated Offered price $Net ProfitsCreative Financing OptionsHard Money FundingSecond OpinionThis Application - is all about you - you have it - and can improve it - become skilled and profit all the time when used.Real estate is a physical thing - it is the vehicle that's used to make thousands of dollars - real estate more importantly is about people - their needs - motivations - desires and problems.

Where we are, section 8 will pull a voucher when tenants get out of line with the terms of the lease.That being said, if you really want them out you can incentive them to move....maybe a couple hundred bucks (given after they sign a move out agreement and are physically out of the unit with all thier stuff) in exchange for the keys is the most cost effective way to go?  

I personally come from a construction background, so "physical plant" issues don't bother me, and I consider it an advantage.  

I would lose my sleep if I had property across the country which I cannot physically visit as often as I liked.

You can go physically to your courthouse, but who wants to do that when there is software that will.I use 2 resources: "RESS" Real Estate Success Software- its $39.95/month, its nation wide as long as your local courthouse is online- typically is than not.

It would be wise to physically assess the property and interview new property management while there.