Even just walking in and looking at a property there is so much I don't know know about how to come to an objective opinion about the state of the foundation and whether I can trust a contractors estimates or not, etc. 

It's an operating expense that you have very little (if any) control over, and they SO OFTEN make awful financial decisions with your money, and you have very little power to oppose them.Also, it seems like the possibility of assuming such a low interest rate debt might be making it hard for you to look at it objectively.

Isn't that always the investment objective? 

This narrows down the options and helps investors focus on properties that align with their objectives.

In other words, don't get trapped in the shiny object syndrome.

A big piece of that is finding someone intelligent, who has work ethic, shares your financial approach and financial objectives.

The setup was somewhat costly, a little clunky, and required a number of different legal entities to accomplish all objectives.

Assuming you could add a little value, even 10% you'd close your gap and hit your objectives and then could flip into a 100% passive strategy and ride off into the sunset.    

But we do help review all available listings, what to look for and identify interesting listings and then discuss pro's and con's - it is a collaborative process.One of our main objectives is to provide perspective.

Another issue is the shiny object or "if you chase two rabbits you'll catch none saying" when people start looking at way too many options rather than just focusing on one deal.