So I got one that was very in-budget, good in terms of cash flow, decent neighborhood, not too old, clean inspection, etc.

Talk about having a powerful "why." 

Totally rehabbed and renovated, the inspection report is clean.

Fortunately, selecting a "good" location is relatively easy if you use the right metrics.Rent and Price Growth Rate - Inflation is constantly eroding buying power; each year, it costs more to buy the same set of goods and services.

This is an example and needs to be modified but the goal here is if/when a contractor with no money invested drops the ball; you can easily and cleanly find another contractor to complete the project.

Cleaning dishwasher strainers is another thing i do when there is tenant turnover.

I've received one bid for $15,000 to fix the gutters, power wash, replace wood rot and paint, and trying to collect more bids.

Added value to this deal by updating the countertops in the kitchen, new fridge and range hood, new paint on the cabinets, fixed and cleaned single pane windows.

I am looking to keep current zoning and not deal with the headache as I learn, so looking for 7)  5-acre lots bring a country road, power, and fiber.

Traditional rent would go for $650 but I estimate I'll pull in about $1,200 (gross) from Airbnb.I'm moving to California in a few months so I'll have to set up systems before I leave (cleaning, check-in, check-out, etc).