I mostly agree with Aaron here, except about the carpets.

Never had any trouble selling one of these when I was done with it except my wife would go into the let's sell our place and move in here mode.

I'm exceptionally impressed with the power of PropertyRadar and it's incredible value.I must also disclose that Sean O'toole is a friend of mine. 

I will tell you what we have done:We have not tied up our money in SFH (with the exception of our future retirement home which we rent out.) 

is specifically referring to the Delayed Financing Exception for cash out refinancing for FannieMae loans.

Much like how a slaughterhouse uses every bit of the hog, except the squeal.Start by creating symbiotic relationships with your competing/like-business folks that you normally bash heads with.

I have no affiliation with any of the sites recommended (Except a customer on fiverr)

I would say it depends on just how "move-in ready" you are expecting.If someone is sitting on a property that is in relatively good repair overall, with the exception of some paint, flooring, and minor kitchen updates (countertop replacement/cabinet refinishing) for example, as a result of inheritance or a property that may be more of an afterthought for whatever reason, then perhaps through direct mail you may uncover a handful of decent leads/deals whose owners haven't necessarily yet put the wheels in motion to get rid of a property that they may consider selling once they are given a slight nudge.

.-- I agree with your post, except this part. 

Except maybe to update the water heater just to make sure that they wont break down shortly after a tenant moves in.