From that perspective, we actually got really lucky with one of the best lots, if not my favorite style of house (we have a tri-level).My first investment house was not my first choice, and it had lots of issues.

Instantly became one of my favorite books.

My personal favorites are "Invest in Debt by Jimmy Napier" and "Note Investing Made Easier by Martin Saenz". 

So I took a field trip today to 417 E.

Garage sale, Craig's List, many trips to the dump, many weekly pick-ups by the city, donations to charity...and a few items we took home.

@Stephen BensonRentometer is my favorite but you can also go on some local property management websites and look up properties to see what they are renting for.

We also live in TX, a new AC we put in May already had a dirty coil outside and tripped the circuit.

HOA property managers power trip Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

If your favorite uncle wants to give you your inheritance early, without paying a gift tax, then this may be viable.

On smaller tasks you will pay more simply due to their minimum trip charge, which should be completely acceptable by a landlord.