The best way to find hidden gems is to simply slowly drive around a target area and then get out on foot and walk the streets in that area.
Services such as Google maps consist of dated mapping visuals, so it could be that an old pub in the target area has recently gone bust and closed but the map doesn’t reflect this. The same applies for any type of business premises or residential building.
Sourcing online is also full of potential distractions. Checking your email, social networks, a quick read of the news headlines and so on.. With walking the streets this ensures a fully immersed experience and keeps you hyper-focused.
You can also get a reasonable overview of the property in person even by just standing outside of it it’s condition, size and so on.