I won't ever close on another OOS property without walking it first but that involves paying for lots of flights and hotel/rental car costs if flying out there to make an offers but the $1500 to $3000 would be worth the cost to me to save on future headaches. 

Because first and foremost it requires you getting INVOLVED, putting in some rep's, and if you won't get involved and won't put in the rep's you will never, I repeat you will NEVER succeed in investment real estate or any business venture EVER, full-stop. 

Too many people involved to do a relatively simple transaction.

Short-term rentals (STRs) offer a way around these limitations by being considered active income if you meet certain material participation requirements, such as working more than 500 hours or 100 hours, surpassing anyone else involved.

Fair Housing may not apply to you, but you should know for sure if you intend to deny their request.2.

Being deeply involved in the local real estate market, I stay connected with wholesalers, realtors, and local investors who often share opportunities.

Getting multiple contractors involved will be your best bet to get a reliable estimate, though you need to come up with a scope of work.

It involves investing in strong growth markets, diversifying, and buying distressed properties.

Why type of price point are you looking, what anticipated ROI/cash flow, how much time do you want to be involved in, what is your risk threshold, how long do you plan to hold the property, are you looking to invest locally or open to exploring other markets, etc.? 

There is a Fund of Funds involved.