Managing from afar can be done on single family homes with a few properties, but you'll still need a solid leasing agent and handyman which can sometimes be hard to find. 

If you're looking for a more landlord-friendly market, I personally recommend Columbus OH.

I’ve been in the industry for several years, and my work has given me a solid understanding of property systems, maintenance, and what makes a home a great investment.I’m now looking to expand my own real estate journey by learning how to acquire and manage short-term and long-term rental properties.

I just don't want to start working with a realtor and waste time and end up with no real solid prospects for buying.

These are usually from personal connections we have made through the years and the investors usually want proof of experience to participate in any deals.Can you recommend any lenders in particular for SBLOC product?

This would include doing mainly flips so i can get a solid return from that money or possibly even doing private money lending. 

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A person doesn't have to like these new realities but realities they are none the less.

Not in all cases but more often then not.Additionally you have to have solid management who is checking on the property at a minimum once per quarter as many times I find these tenant don't always report issues timely.  

We will shop for used appliances where we can when we need one… or pick up used cabinets if we can, or search eBay for something smaller,  but going to the extreme of personally shipping something big in internationally for one-off renovation needs seems like a stretch of reasonable.Just like you mention, the number of unknowns would not seem to be worth it to me.Just my 2 cents.Randy