There is a large inventory of homes in towns like Hazel Crest, Markham, Dolton, South Holland, Glenwood, Chicago Heights, etc - where you can purchase for $50-75K, do $15-30k worth of cosmetic rehab, then rent for $1200-1500/mo. 

The home will need new bathrooms and several other cosmetic upgrades.I am wondering if the masonry structure with the plaster walls will significantly increase renovation costs and headache. 

The 3rd unit needs some cosmetics repairs, nothing immediate.

We opened the floor plan, added a metal roof, restored the gorgeous hardwood floors, reconfigured the bathroom, added a window for natural light, updated the kitchen, and of course a full cosmetic rehab.

The other 2 just need some basic updating and cosmetic work (about 25k).So here are my questions:1.

I’m trying to move to Las Vegas to be closer to my brother and nephew after his step mother has back surgery.

You will need to look off market as well looking for stuff that may just need cosmetic work (which means VA should be fine with it) or properties about to come to market after having been rehabbed before they hit the market.  

There's better ROI and investment margins buying a renovated home in west passyunk - 19145 (or buying a home that needs some cosmetic rehab, do the rehab work, and get appreciation on the property to boot (think BRRRR method).

The structure is in great shape so it is more cosmetic work.

I don't want to drive into a neighborhood I don't feel safe in AT NIGHT -IF I ever have to check on something at the property or pick up the rent -rare, but happens).FINDING TGE RIGHT PROPERTY IS KEY.It is very possible with common sense, research, your personal knowledge of the Raleigh area to FIND a house in great shape (needing only cosmetic touchups and yard work)that is under-priced and in a highly appreciating section of Raleigh.My GOLD STANDARD PROPERTY to buy in the past was a minimum:HOUSE with 3Br 2Ba 2 car garage, 1400 sqft MINIMUM.But ALL home prices in Charlotte have gone UP.