or it is just the way the market currently is right now ?

All major repairs, such as the HVAC and roof were handled before the seller put the property on the market. 

In addition, if you bought any of these below market, you might capture some equity upon purchase.My wife and I do a mix of syndicating and limited partner investing in apartments and have had great returns. 

You might be able to find some materials online but you gamble on the quality.In my case this is what I follow:- Construction material locally so we quickly can resupply - Flooring locally (I find better prices and service this way)- Plumbing locally (I bought online for my first remo and quality was really bad) locally are more expensive but I don't gamble anymore as plumbing is something that is always a time constraints to complete and continue other works.- Electronic fixtures like fans, etc online.

Marketing to real estate agents.

Even with a single family often there are utilities that you will want to pay directly as a landlord and which are customary in that market to be included in the rent.

@Joshua Flamm, I would take a minute and send him a note or go online to https://royallegalsolutions.com/ and take look.He hasn't been on in a long while so I would try the website.

Knowing a market and being within a reasonable distance just seems to make sense especially if you are either working solo or with a small newly formed team.

What type of traveler are you marketing to?

If you ever consider the southwest Florida market let me know!