I would say that there is probably a better solution than buying D-class headaches. 

@Aaron Klatt wholesaling has always been the "no education, no experience, no money, no problem" solution to enter real estate.

@Gary FreidmanI have used Rose Pest Solutions before, they're pretty responsive and you can sign up for a subscription where they can come whenever you (your tenant) calls.

Then, I went to talk with many good friends and wise adults about a solution to my situation.

Looking for creative and legal solutions.

The solution is a VA Mirror Wrap.

People are more likely to dig into something and estimate costs for you (to get your some data points) when you have a specific situation/project and possible solution proposed.Other advice would be to see places and get used to walking around the Menards/Lowes/Home Depots of the world to more quickly be able to reference standard stuff like lumber, finish materials, windows, etc... 

One solution I had, though, was to control what I put in there.

Add up all of the supplies you needed (Windex, paper towels, carpet cleaning solution, paint..)

The whole point of creative financing is helping sellers find a solution to a problem by creating a win-win situation for everyone involved.