I can provide support of checking in on contractors, staging rental properties, walk potential leads to give you an idea of the property in person or what the area is like, meeting with agents, and drafting scope of work for projects. 

I want to give them the benefit of the doubt they are just struggling with staffing but now have seen some red flags that lead me to believe there might also be some type of deceit/fraud and possible financial trouble.

Can confirm Joseph is a real person 

Real estate investment is my future.This amazing voyage begins with setting personal goals and vision.

Personally, if the property is in a bad area, this will give you headaches no matter what.

My recommendation would be to engage an investment property focused realtor (not a general residential realtor) and let that person guide you through the process from pre-qualification to market/property valuation and selection. 

Cosmo - I personally don't know Phoenix well, but if I had to do this in another city I would look at income levels, crime levels, and population growth (if you can) by zip code and/or area within a DMA as a starting point.

@Nina Erlandson Personally, I have not heard of Obie Insurance.

Explore my personal favorites, Set For Life by Scott Trench or The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey, for invaluable financial insights.3.

Unless you revise your plan and ensure that your personal use is under 10% of the rental use.