CT requires an Architect (or Engineer) for projects of this nature, especially a building of this age where it's likely there's structural/framing items to address.

I see this all over Philadelphia with Properties built around that same time that are deteriorating due to contractors missing these small ticket items. 

Inspection reports will always be a very meticulous report of all items that need to be repaired, or suggested to be repaired in a home. 

I thought I'd squirrel some money away in case of a big ticket item like water heater, roof, etc. 

This is for mid-range quality and minimal assembly items- what you save in purchase price you will lose in replacement and assembly costs!

They can also be another item that will need maintenance / replacements if they break down. 

Professional property managers are often licensed real estate brokers who specialize in acting as the filter for you for the number items, which are not only costly but a headache.

Here's some food for thought:- Many of my first time investors know from the jump that they aren't going to be driving 5 hours round trip for every little item, and also know that they arent prepared to handle things like disputes, evictions, lease violations, etc.

It would primarily be the due diligence items that would cause a snag.

I just can't see a world where there isn't some tax change that happens next year to at least make some of the more procedural items of the TCJA permanent + other changes.