That could totally be based on execution failure, but for us, it just wasn't a good fit. 

I have tried pretty much anything personally and I have seen so many investors start and either succeed or fail - well, let's call it abort and sell to never touch RE again.And then I get calls from OOS investors who want to buy a 120k duplex in Milwaukee and when I try to tell them what will happen they go: uhm, I don't think we are a good fit.

Right now, your fighting saying this square peg won't fit into the round hole. 

I'd start by refining your search criteria, researching the surrounding markets, and comparing them to what best fits your needs, etc. 

It was honestly luck, I didn't know much about real estate I just knew I needed a house that was unappealing to others to be able to buy it and have it fit in our budget.

I designed a little U-shaped kitchen to fit right in the space.

If you're planning to rehab properties for rental or flipping, a hard money lender might be the right fit.

Generic replacement parts that fit American Standard can be found anywhere.Don't buy the cheap $90 toilets.

It is pretty easy to keep it fully occupied but it does mean I turn away a ton of people who want a lease that doesn't quite fit my requirements. 

@Jemini LeckieIf investing locally is not in the cards I would do some research and pin point a market that fits what you are looking for and then reach out in the forums for that specific market and ask more detailed questions.