EDUCATE YOURSELF - yes, it will take time, but will lead to a selection that better meets your expectations & avoids potentially costly surprises!

something that seems to surprise new investors is that transacting real estate is expensive.in Pittsburgh transfer taxes are 5%, usually split between buyer and seller. 

I use DealMachine, and I'm happy with it (I read the instructions you provide at the site, so I actually wasn't surprised by anything).

Knowledge is power:Thorough Inspections: Minimize surprises with detailed inspections and due diligence.Strong Screening: Careful tenant selection reduces vacancy and headaches.Diversification: Spread your investments across different locations and property types to mitigate risk.Financial Planning: Maintain a buffer and choose financing options that fit your long-term goals.

Best way to do this, you want it to be a surprise so you see how they really live, is to setup a Zoom call with them at home to go over some "questions".

Windows would be my next check-point (less than R1) and then wall insulation: I would not be surprised if they have no insulation inside, but you can do blow-in, which only requires a small hole.A home looses heat in two ways: heat conduction (which you can slow down with insulation) and drafts, which in old houses is usually the biggest culprit.

I'm surprised to see so many posts favoring blinds over curtains.

Those are a nasty surprise whenever I go to Texas or the South (we also don't really get a ton of bugs in Denver, though they are there in the mountains). 

Their are opportunities but very much depends on location, no surprise there.  

I'm very surprised by the chair as well because they usually will at least replace things like that for a % of the original price (or new price).