I only ask because a town I grew up in, (Tempe AZ) was cheap when I first arrived there. 

Also with stucco siding tile roofs No major weather issues desert landcaping etc etc.. maintenance is quite easy and very cheap compared to other areas of the country.

They are cheap for a reason.

I’ll just start out by saying I’m not a fan of syndications and own a number of single family rentals just to mark my position from the outset;  but the answers as to “why” may provide enlightenment to you, so I will throw a few out for your consideration.., some of which you mention, so it seems you must be aware of them.As an investor, your goal is typically  to maximize your return and minimize your risk.  

There are going to be three levels of addressing this 1) things you can simply go there and do anytime (pick up pet waste and throw it away) 2) things you can do given proper notice (enter the unit and inspect, repair damage etc) and 3) things you can only do given proper process/procedure (notice to vacate, increase rent etc.)

In my opinion, house hacking is the easiest way to get into the RE game with the lowest money out of pocket...plus if you throw in a renovation loan like the 203k or homestyle, you can boost your worth quickly!

A skilled operator can still make money there, but if you are long distance, have no connections to the area, and just like it because it is cheap, it's probably going to take a lot of time/hassle and underperform index funds.

If you can get a 4 unit and a basement, that would be ideal and create major cash flow and equity creation, plus you can not worry about a property manager and boost your yield.You can get a whole bunch of cheap debt which your tenants will pay down over time, massive appreciation and potential cash flow if you buy right. 

Obviously, rents are very cheap there, but it seems I can find MLS listings that match or come close to the 2% rule.

Cheap suction cup didn't work for the vinyl plank tiles, but the $30 double suction worked good.