I've found a couple of sites that have good domain names and look like they have elements that I could use or build on that have been de-indexed by Google for all the obvious reasons: no original content, repackaged material, obviously poor user experience, etc. Realistically, is it possible to rehabilitate these sites by fixing the problems? I don't mind fixing problems, actually it can be kind of fun, but I don't want to waste my time fixing things if Google views these type of sites as forever tainted, the taint always attached to the domain name. Thanks.
A site is never forever tainted, but you can't exactly call Google customer service either... I know colleagues that have adsense accounts suspended, and NEVER get them reinstated, for example. To be on google's black list is not good. I would check the black list first, because if it's just de-indexed, no problem.. but if it's on the blacklist, you better watch out.
If you decide to try rehabilating de-indexed sites, I'd recommend adding fresh, original, high quality content and use good keywords within that content. Also continue to add new content on a regular basis.
Thanks for the help. I didn't know Google had a black list. I Googled it and found a blacklist checker tool. It looks like both sites are simply de-indexed and not black listed.
You can fix and resubmit the domains to get indexed again, verifying them in webmaster tools will help. Using new scripts and HTML will aid the process. If all else fails, transferring the domain to a new owner / account / registrar and then submitting new sites will pretty much guarantee indexing. If you're still in need, I can probably help you out here
Make Sure you have a Google Webmaster tools account setup for each account, this is how Google communicates with you, they will tell you if you have a penalty or not. You can also submit for re-consideration there as well.