1) Research Zoning of similar property2) Do search with same zoning criteria with propertyradar or have title company give you a list.3) Possibly filter by satellite photos to eliminate undesirable topography.

The best alternative is to not buy cheap, crapbox properties in the midwest that will attract an undesirable tenant base. 

My main criteria for buying rentals is who my tenant pool is going to be, which is why I don't buy cheap midwest properties that attract undesirable, high maintenance tenants.

So it's not always direct pricing savings but peripheral things like that too.

Cheap crapboxes attract undesirable tenants with higher maintenance and vacancy. 

Which means the majority of applicants for the individual landlord with one or two units is from this undesirable tenant pool.In states that have a “fairer” approach to housing we find that small landlord if can be VERY profitable.

When I performed a recent search for seller carried coastal land - the results were short and mostly undesirable.

Typically there is a one or two year ramp up period where you get all the deferred maintenance and/or undesirable tenants out.

I can get someone out to visit a property to vet it for me, but I'd have to set up all the peripherals like management, maintenance, etc.

A Lot of turnkeys are going to these undesirable spots and its highly possible you'll end up with more liability with turnover rehab requirements.