All renters got dirtygrams from landlord when common areas were found in less than desirable condition.   

I just completed the most difficult refi of my investing life.  

I have been against credit cards my whole life, but BP taught sometimes its ok to do high interest financing.

Once I sold the collateral at auction to take it over he continued to threaten and intimidate the tenants to pay him rent.

As Aaron says make your personal life decision first.

New sellers, their home if in okay condition, or coffee shop. 

If these features in your unit pale in comparison (age, condition, etc.) to the others, it puts you at a competitive disadvantage. 

If you feel it is right for you then go pursue it and don't listen to anyone including me who tells you,"that is not the way to go"Just because I have spent my entire life jumping 3 foot hurddles does not mean there are not people out there than know how to and can jump 6 foot hurddles.

Make sure that electric, water and gas is on before inspection and still good inspector can tell you about overall condition of the house.

I have lived in OK for 2 years of my life in 2011-2013 and plan on moving back possibly forever.