You don't usually get to inspect the property before buying so you take a large risk.

Aside from the STR restriction situation mentioned by Michael, new construction is going to cost more than buying an existing property 98 percent of the time. 

Currently own one long term buy and hold single family property.

My fiance and I are looking to buy our first home.  

To answer your question directly - yes, never buy a property that neither you nor someone you trust has seen in person.  

In the longterm your better off buying a solid property, 3-4 units if you can qualify for it, and getting started vs looking for the perfect deal for years that never comes.

It seems that a great idea for someone who is wanting to buy a Foreclosed property/REO with a VA Loan , is to find those that have the " Renovation Logo " next to them ( those listed on the HomePath website, as this houses have likely been renovated and or had things fixed, that should allow the house to Pass most Lenders guidelines ......

Considering buying a property on the Lake of the Ozarks in Camdenton.

Having a trusted person or family member generally sounds good for starters buy because of that relationship you might get into the issue of late payments.

That seems like it will cost me more money and time but I can really use all the money I can get with such a short turn around and the small margins the house makes already.