Long-Term Holds: Not every distressed property is suitable for a quick flip.

I know this thing will pay off in the long run but don’t want to kill myself doing it lol That's why you pay a broker 1-2% to find the best terms and handle the deal for you, lol.

The era of "everything prints money on Airbnb" is LONG GONE! 

Phoenix contains a rare combination of elements that have created an outstanding market for distressed property investments, including the following:Cost Savings: Distressed properties are sold below their market value and enable investors to take hold of properties at a trifle compared to traditionally listed properties.Strong Market Fundamentals: Being among the fastest-growing cities in the country, Phoenix ensures a high demand in housing and rentals, hence good potential for resale or income from rentals.Value Creation Opportunities: Most distressed properties need renovations; thus, such situations present opportunities for investors to increase equity by adding value.Population and Economic Growth: Phoenix remains among those cities in the country which are attracting more and more residents and business; therefore, this presents good, long-term appreciation possibilities of property appreciation and income creation.Challenges to ConsiderWhile the rewards can be great, distressed property investment is not without its challenges.

From what you’ve described, it sounds like you’re more focused on long-term appreciation and future benefits rather than immediate cash flow.

You lose all of the control and these are long term investments - but in my experience the returns match what I had on the active real estate and I am hiring professionals to manage the assets.  

Looking at this property as a long term rental strategy.

Can they prove how long it takes to rent a vacant property?

It's been too long.

You bought long-term rentals, so be a long-term investor.