Biggest items were plumbing related (toilets, faucets) or washer/dryer or AC unit related.

High end looking remodel. 600k in total projected renovations which they would finance.

I was looking to purchase with a full 203k loan as I have to put in a septic system and I would like to remodel the house.

High boy toilets unless the owner begs me not to.

Should I partner with a contractor for the purchase and remodel or find investors and then get a contractor?

I am not going to remodel a kitchen or bath because they ask or refinish hardwood floors to be a nice guy but if something reasonable is requested, I want it done quickly and professionally. 

And should I replace the toilets just because?

Upstairs bath, kept ugly vanity and top but made it look alright with new faucets, mirrors, lightsHad tub sprayed to match new toilet (it was bright yellow!)

Tell them you want it so you can remodel the house.

I live about 1 hour from each property, so I will be using a more local management company, but with checks and balances to go through me (I want to see a prospective tenant's information; I also want to see repair estimates before any work is done).Both buildings have had some remodeling done to them.