Are there any creative investing methods that could be utilized in this?

I don't mind buying a house that might need roof work, minor plumbing/electrical, drywall and paint.

@Josh Braun, I like your category method.  

A general contractor will be able to give you a better idea about the house itself, the foundation, the age of the plumbing/electrical, and many other things including, if you are thinking of making any structural changes to the house, whether those changes are feasible or not.Good luck!

Little things like plumbing a clogged toilet, same thing (so go ahead and put them on the 'repairs' line if you wish.

I purchased the paint for another job had $150 in the 2 5gallon buckets of behr ultra, $46 in ceiling paint, 2 shower valves at $55 each, drywall at $64, insulation $60, plumbing fittings at $23, tile was $100, $60 in door knobs, I payed my employees for cleaning all 4 units out, painting 1 apartment and half other, tearing out paneling and insulation, re install new insulation and hang and finish drywall, install 2 shutoff valves and install scald proof valve.

I've heard of the BRRR method.

My wife and I are using the BRRRR method successfully with a pace of 1 house per month give or take for the past year.

If it turns out that the plumbing is fine, you're ahead of the game.

All plumbing and wiring is also being redone.