They could get a return by buying an empty home and fixing it up.
They could get a return by learning more about the existing tenants before buying.
They could even get possibly a return by getting to know the guy, being transparent about what is needed to keep the property up and setting a rent he could pay.
They just filled out forms and faxed letters. I would be shocked if they set foot on the premises.
There is no "inalienable right to a return on investments"