I grew up in the 19th ward and am very familiar with all of Monroe country (thanks to my former life). 

If you can bypass or overcome this obstacle, you have a real chance of creating wealth in this country.

Make sure the siding is at least 8 inches above grade, ensure that there is no untreated wood in contact with soil or foundation, check any exposed studs for damage, check any exterior trim/sills that come close to the ground, etc.Also, certain areas of the country are more termite prone than others.

The way of this world.Its in Germany the same, only the Hypo Real Estate Bank is sponsored by the country here (with $25 billions).I don´t know your bank balance (and I do not want this), but I think you can open your own bank Rich with the right money.

This is a great strategy in a "Landlords' market" however, in many places in country, we are in a "Renters' market" and when you have 10 other similar property down the street that offer "no application fee", small security deposit, and first month free...

My first investment ever was out of the country and then everything after that was out-of-state.

However you must not be familiar with South Florida the real estate fraud capitol of the country...there are so many agents and realtors doing shady stuff I sort of consider "lazy" the least of all evils.I am going to go get a beer now.

Do you pick up the phone and call someone on the other side of the country?

So now that I have retired and moved across the country I am just starting to get my own rentals. 

Commissions have always been negotiable up and or down.Now Granted 6% has stuck across the country..