All of the properties surrounding this house are being remodeled and empty lots are getting new, modernized homes built on them.

This is one area would I would spend money on because the kitchen will not be remodeled anytime soon.  

And if they are a minor handy person that doesn't bother me with things like a loose doorknob or clogged toilet or burned out light bulb, then they just might be a keeper. 

For the bathroom, for instance, repainting, re-grouting the shower walls, installing new shower head, swapping out vanity, swapping out toilet, and installing new faucets would completely transform the space and isn't too difficult to do on your own.  

So they set all of the gold cars they saw in the parking lot on fire.No caption necessary for this toilet from hell.This is what a kitchen can look like when a low income tenant moves out of it.This is what a backyard can look like when a low income tenant moves out of it.If tenants in these tough neighborhoods don't have yards, don't worry they will light off their fourth of July fireworks in their bathrooms.Don't worry though.

If you're going to proceed to closing make sure your future tenants FULLY understand that the only things that should be flushed down the toilet are #1, #2, and toilet paper. 

The only thing I don't like is that I haven't many homes being remodeled in the area.Have you checked out the Greer Mill?

My strategy is buy, remodel, and hold. 

If you're paying for the water, install low-flow toilets, shower-heads, and aerators. 

Getting the house rent ready has costed $15k masterbath remodel and $7k for new roof.