If you’re willing to take on a property that needs some work, you can customize the improvements to suit your rental strategy.

But, It isn't normal.I check in on the 5 - 20 wholesale gurus (there are 7 in the Phoenixmarket) that have active youtube channels.

(I used to do these inspections)I was just discussing this as I make some improvements to one of my properties. 

Here's what I'm thinking you might love from BiggerPockets content - Noah has a great youtube series called "How I started" interviewing people about how they found and purchased their first deals - https://youtube.com/playlist?

I then proceeded to dump a ton of money into capital improvements in order to make it a competitive STR (details below). 

Once the infrastructure improves where people can live near where they work and commute times are under 30 minutes there could be a return to the office.

Will they find the property send you a contact and then a thank you card or will they provide resources for tenant improvements, get tenants, stabilize the units, plan for the exit etc...

I would go to youtube and search Avery Carl Enemy Method

If you do find a deal and maybe it doesn’t cash flow for the first year or 2 but you can make improvements, raise rents on under market leases, manage property effectively and cover your expenses at least you will have started and can look for better cashflow over time.

That said, the rental income may not be great without improvements or rent increases.