I am currently in the Marines and stationed in Jamaica for my last tour (Lucky me right?).  

Here is one i'm looking at buying pending wife's tour and approval (lol)https://www.redfin.com/VA/Arlington/4860-28th-St-S...Here is my spreadsheet I do not use BP calc (left monthly right annual) Price 274,000.00 Down Payment 68,500.00 Mortgage 205,500.00 Principle/Interest 1,056.56 12,678.68 Taxes 212.50 2,550.00 Insurance 29.17 350.00 Condo Fee 232.00 2,784.00 Repair Reserve 83.33 1,000.00 Total Expenses 1,613.56 19,362.68 Rent 1,800.00 21,600.00 Cash Flow 186.44 2,237.32 I'm confident I can rent at 1,800 which is higher than the area looks by data, but I target DC people paying 2,200 who are amazed by the space and beauty of this place for "such a low price"  (example:  OH MY GOD I CAN FIT A BED IN THE BEDROOM AND NOT BLOCK ANY WINDOWS!!!)

I would say they are the needle in the haystack and most wholesalers a) don't know what they are doing and b) would tell you anything to get you to buy the house.That being said, if it were me, I would feel comfortable NOT getting an inspection, but I have done enough flips and toured enough houses to recognize the major issues.  

I have a trip to Michigan planned in the near future so I may do some tours and kick the bricks, so to speak.

"Sold" prices on comps are one thing but if they've toured the properties, know the condition, etc. they might be able to either supply you with: 1.) more ammunition to help make your argument or 2.) an understanding that the property is priced properly.  

This one is my favorite Best on Commercial Real Estate: Mastering the Art of Commercial Real Estate Investingit gives me a good tour of understanding)

I've seen some put the house under contract and then bring in a contractor for estimates and then I've heard others tour the home with a contractor.

.#3 Explore Lowes and Home Depot to Learn About Material PricingTake a tour through Lowes and Home Depot (or their websites) and look at finishes materials and fixtures that you will consider using in your rehab projects.

You can even schedule some tours of rentals that are available and see what the current inventory looks like and what it is priced at. 

Many are here for youth sports tournaments, tour groups, conventions and want to be in a community that offers more.