For my first deal, I would personally look for a property at a higher price point (nicer asset/neighborhood), needs work in the dollar amount of no more than half of what I paid for it (less room for error and mainly cosmetic items), and has a reasonable spread based on comps after taking into account all expenses on a 6 month hold (so I can at least try to break even should unexpected circumstances arise). 

Older and more seasoned agents routinely were told that VA loans are not good loans because it requires them to do slightly more work.

It needed primarily cosmetic fixes and was an absolute steel!

This tenant also routinely caused issues for the neighbors. 

House hacking this with two roommates while I update some cosmetic items around the house.

Full cosmetic renovations are easier.

Assuming the latter and you are doing rentals, I'd buy something that is more turnkey and needs cosmetic work (eg do new paint and flooring). 

I want to spruce up the place anyway for some forced appreciation, but was trying to keep things like that mainly cosmetic. 

Typically will need do atleast some cosmetic updates to make deal work. 

Both units need a lot of cosmetic work/upgrades to get top rent.