It’s better to get to know a market really well—understanding the neighborhoods, trends, and key players—than to spread yourself too thin.

I'm fairly handy, but just to balance things with my 9-5 job, focusing on something that just needs superficial updates or something nearly turn-key is probably best. 

Two other key aspects that worry me about Japan are (1) generally depreciating values of real estate and (2) generally decreasing rents. 

Key points include:Security Deposits: In Indiana, there’s no legal cap on security deposits, but you must return the deposit (minus any valid deductions) within 45 days of the tenant vacating the property.Evictions: Follow the formal process carefully.

I think it gives great insight into turn key rentals. 

IMHO the key is having an agent on the buy side who understands the process and can make some magic happen for you. 

One thing my property management company does, is that we give the tenant a move-in checklist before we give them the keys.

In my market, almost all sellers are still offering buyer compensation so you could hire an agent hourly, pay them, and then the seller will also pay them comp on your behalf so it doesn't really make any sense to do and no good agents will do this in my opinion.

I really do think these turn keys are a great option, especially for out of state investors. 

And what is your price point and are you looking for turn-key properties or something along the lines of a "fixer upper"?