I've been collaborating with what I believe is a virtual assistant to coordinate the appraisal and inspections for a few months.

Having someone local gives you better insight into the market, and they can handle things like inspections or tenant relations while you're away.

Never buy any property without physically inspecting it and its neighborhood yourself, AND having it thoroughly inspected by a great inspector who YOU select and pay for.

Also, depending on the area, codes and historic have been a big pain especially since the new city administration has put a much higher % inspection requirements for "cosmetic rehabs".I've been able to turn majority of the units in the last 3 years. 

Learned a lot about the process while property is under contract (coordinating home inspections, appraisals, getting documentation to the lender, etc) I should have locked in my interest rate two weeks ago before they shot up recently!

Visit some properties, eat at some resturants, make some connections(realtors, insurance agents, etc).Once you visit the area, you can make a better informed decision if thats an area that you want to buy in.Once you did this, and you are new to buying properties, I would maybe visit the property when it is being inspected.Once you have a couple of properties under your belt, you can rely on the home inspection report.Best of luck

Or better, buy a property that is not subject to an HOA.Also, if you are leasing for 6 months or less, you will be subject to the 6% Florida short term rental tax.You may also have city and county additional taxes, business tax receipt, and mandatory inspections for short term rental depending on the jurisdiction where your property is located.

I manage the vacancies, leasing, contractor and inspection appointments, but honestly the Turbotenant software I use is really user friendly and handles rent collection and what not. 

Now I am 15 years into this and some of the properties I have not seen in years even though they are all here in Milwaukee (we do annual inspections though).

No rent.Presented a fake lease to my PM.Allowed them to do an inspection.