However, do not go sight unseen unless you have the capital for major repairs.

We bought properties that need quite a few repairs in order to get them rent ready but the purchase price is right.

Can I post an email address or phone number# 

I have lots of first time buyer investor clients and always recommend a house hack (buy a 2-4 unit and live in 1 unit) but you need at least $40-50k I’d say to safely start even low down as need repair reserves, etc.

A competent property manager can use their connections to get the property rented and repairs taken care of. 

Could I instead hire foundation repair and soil stabilization services to prevent foundation issues?

If they are not good at property and asset management your "investment" could become a money pit with vacancy and repair expenses. 

Sometimes you will have that next person/family lined up and ready to go, but sometimes it takes much longer and you need do renovations or at least some repairs.

Doing general paint and carpet cleaning for this property along with some minor repairs, junk removal and fixed a couple small plumbing issues (mostly deferred maintenance).

It puts a face to management and allows to open doors for repairs if need be and makes them aware of who owns property now.