Once you get to know the sellers and gain their trust (it may take a few conversations going back and forth), then you should ask them if you could get a few estimates from contractors on the work needing to be performed and go from there.

Shopping by sales and rebates for high-volume items is also a great savings. 

You must disclose the fact that you are an agent, to a seller as soon as the conversation goes toward the business of purchasing their home.  

It's also used to advertise homes and properties for rent.However, Craigslist is also known for robberies and scams of personal items such as phones and gadgets.

so do a little shopping always get your home inspection and look out for the big items that could cost you the most if they failed.

I have a personal rule I call the "75% Rule"...If a large/capital expense is being consider, I'll determine if the item is past 75% of its typical useful life -- if so, I replace it.

And also that may be one item to think of, what happens if you have to leave  and who will handle the place (ie outside local management)....

Email me, I am always excited to have coffee and good conversation!

Get an item of value into each of their hands every 3 months (small gift).I am also a proponent of geographical farming.  

After much searching I found a company called limited resources which makes residential coin laundry conversion kits.