In many cases for a rental property, well done cosmetic updates are more than adequate.

How much work do they like to have to do (cosmetic projects, or structural renovations)?  

The only good news is that the repairs are mstly cosmetic, and I'm confident on the contractor part.The appraiser I talked to knows less than me.Is there anyplace to go to get appraisal info on non-standard residential?  

there are respectable homes in your price range though most will need some cosmetics or a bit of love in some way or other.  

This home needed a complete cosmetic remodel.

Mostly cosmetic updatesRepaired Foundation and added foundation drainReplaced Electrical Panel What was the outcome?

Having no downpayment is awesome but the monthly expenses are a little high because of the mip and the higher mortgage rate because of the OHFA.The seller is paying for all the major repairs and I work In Construction so I can do all the cosmetic work and have friends in all the trades.The other 3 units are occupied.

@John Meyers Tenants expect to have heat at no additional charge, but nice cosmetic upgrades only make sense if it increases the rent.

I was thinking of buying a house that needed some cosmetic things done and yes, living in it while that is going on. 

Look for rent to cost ratio and try and find a good candidate that needs cosmetic updates and you can buy at a deep discount.