If you insist on doing the long distance thing...https://www.biggerpockets.com/store/long-distance-real-estate-investing-ultimate may be a place you would want to start?

The big box stores squeeze and hamstring their contractors so bad they are forced to cut corners and many quit half way through the first job when they realize they’re losing money, or just put in effort commensurate to what they’re getting paid which means a terrible finished product.

Or, maybe apply for a position at a big box hardware store where, again, you'll be around home improvement products. 

Start here: https://www.biggerpockets.com/store/how-to-invest-in-real-estate-ultimate

I can't even go to the grocery store without meeting someone from Minnesota, so you would be in good company. 

After reading and listening to a lot of different strategies through the podcast, books, social media, etc, I think Mark Ferguson's strategy really hits home. 

I would use a SBA 5 loan to purchase with 20% down.Currently the only advertising for the facility is a sign that hangs on the back of it, no internet or social media presence and it operates at 85-90% occupancy according to the seller with minimal advertising besides the hanging banner, and the numbers for rents seem pretty solid with room to increase and add some value.

Because it's not being sold in stores the packaging costs, etc are nothing. 

There is no "article" you will read in the media that has any accurate information or statistics about the business of flipping as it occurs in the real world.There will be better times, there will be worse times, but there will always be a market for buying a rundown house and fixing it up to resell it.

Basically gives you a road map so all you have to do is plug in the pieces.https://www.biggerpockets.com/store/long-distance-real-estate-investing-ultimate