It also appealed to me that I could help someone stay in their home (my primary exit strategy) and still make money.

Next to curb appeal, the first things people notice when they walk inside are the ones that affect their senses, like sight, sound and smell.

I definitely see the appeal to owning a property outright though

Being able to collect a commission on a buy is nice and waiving or reducing your commission in exchange for a price reduction can make your offer more appealing as well.As an agent buying properties, you will be held to a higher standard and must adhere to your states guidelines when dealing with sellers.

Either of those seem appealing?

If the property is in an area that you believe will appreciate one day (arts district, natural appeal, etc) and will also produce positive cash flow, then I don't think anyone should fault you for taking that deal.

Appealing to the tenants, they seem to LOVE the inside.

Then transition to out-of-state investing if it still appeals to you.

After I got the hang of it and spent more time on BP, I did provide input on how to make some of the listings more appealing to potential tenants. - I was able to spend my time doing other things.As others are saying, it's typically a commission of the first month's rent.

However, I didn't buy a 2 bedroom 1,500 square foot house in town that isn't much to look at but has an appealing price.