I just don't want the cut end to be raw on the edge of the counter top

And, if you're not cut out for it, don't feel bad, tons of other investors aren't good at leasing either, and they use property management with good results.

isn't going to cut it; not b/c they don't talk to those sellers of beat up properties, but because they become the listing agent when they find those sellers, and see above for how listing agents feel about 203k) and/or c) the buyer has 10+ years of marketing and/or sales experience.

Great post but good lord, the level/degree of cut and pasting on this thread was epic.

I wanted to cut my living expense and house hacking was the best way.

Every result is about how a landlord can sign up for RUBS and cut their net costs.

They are getting about $550, and thanks to Dodd-Frank the "appraisal management company" is taking their ~20% cut, and oh look at that we're right back at around $440.

The target property almost definitely has to be a value add minimally distressed property that can be refinanced after repairs, or a straight up fix and flip.

You get the benefit of a great neighborhood and a comfortable lifestyle with no hassles of upkeep or grass cutting or roofs blowing off, etc... 

Don't cut corners!