But yes, it will require a little more homework

I used to put laminate in most of my flips, but recently did the math and realized that for about $10/sf more (less than $500 per house, typically), the granite is a HUGE selling feature.My biggest opposition to granite is that it generally adds another week to the rehab, as you have to have cabinets installed prior to measuring (if you want to do it right) and then you have to have the plumber come back to install/hook-up the sink.I'll actually pay a bit more for granite these days, as my supplier has a 5-day turnaround, better than I can get with the lower-priced providers.

In the begining, always remember that you do need to do your math analysis and try to look at the prospective properties or at least have a clause in the purchase contract that allows you the time (about 10 to 15 days) upfront to make a detailed inspection and possibly back out of the deal without a penalty that hurts you too much.I have more to say but I will spare you with the rest.  

Going to visit the property in the next 1-2 weeks -- if all looks good, will submit LOI (already know minimum price Seller needs to be at and it works well within my math/criteria) and put the property under contract.  

It takes a lot out of you too if you can't handle pressure and all the complaints but if you can handle all that then you will be fine just know how to be organized, delegate work, deal with tenant relations, retention & all other areas of PM,plus do your homework and study up on all the forms and sign up to be a member at your local Apartment Association.

To be honest I don't fully understand all the math yet I used a couple different mortgage calculators and a little guestimation (like repairs and what not). 

The key is to learn the language, learn the math and learn the market.-  Commit fully to your goals: Getting started is hard and finding success is against the better odds. 

My math brain agrees, but my risk meter does not.I am aggressively accelerating my commercial apt building loans.  

Its very possible, look harder and smarter, you'll find properties that will fit the math.

I agree that organizations will seek a balance between at-home workers and in-office (as needed) options.