I've had places with flaming code violations that managed to sell and close because the appraiser didn't know and the town didn't check for those specific issues (I'm thinking specifically of furnace issues).If they're just backyard projects, they may just need to be cleaned up and made safe/secure before closing.  

I also need help painting, carpeting, cleaning, and general handy man work.  

Lumberjack cleaning, we have a few local commercial cleaning clients that I still operate out of Portland for extra income.

If the unit is messy/dirty to the extend of being damaging or a health hazard, our lease also gives us the right to send-in a cleaning service at the tenants expense.Your biggest concern as a landlord will be vacancy - both physical and economic - as vacancy is foregone revenue.  

The small town aspect does not scare me as that is the kind of community I prefer to live in and know many others that are the same.As a side note when trying to find tenants, what are the best advertising methods?

This property will be delivered with clean title there may be half a years tax's or so but you would take that on.I want this to be a learning experience for the BP community to share with especially newer investors looking to get into the game...

Owner needed to sell, city wanted house cleaned up. 

If not, he'll be toast, depending on his methods.

With the BRRR method if you buy right, hit your rehab budget, and maintain adequate operating reserves, you will not run out of capital.  

Hello Kim........I am an auctioneer in Maryland and offer properties for sale using the auction method of marketing.