Pro Tip: Airbnb provides a level of protection if you end up with a "problem" tenant.

This is a great place to learn and to connect with people so take advantage of all the great resources.Welcome aboard and best of luck investing!

I'd also like to echo @John Underwood comments....if this your first rental investment it could be best to learn the ropes with LTR. 

I would do this first before engaging an agent unless you are extremely active.

This treatment ensures accurate financial and tax reporting, as the credit is part of the sale transaction rather than income.This post does not create a CPA-Client relationship.

Are the older homes in this area safe to buy or do they break down a lot?

It is possible, this is what's called a blanket portfolio loan.

@Paul Bogard going to assume you are buying this proeprty to live in while you "house hack".First, you should understand +95% of real estate agents ONLY know how to sell owner-occupied properties and are almost useless for investors:(Find an agent that has rental properties themself or can PROVE they've got successful repeat investor clients.Secondly, you can greatly improve your cashflow by renting out your other bedrooms.

At this point, I definitely would find some solace in that. 

This my first/introductory post.