I have contacts wth local lenders, and I do Hard Money lending in the Mid-Atlantic region.

We have continued to work with Teresa Fernandez the local go to real estate agent in Coalinga CA.

I tried to put the pieces together to build a solid team out there but it's really tough unless you have someone local to help you run it or are willing to drive back and forth.

I would talk to a local bank or mortgage broker to see what you can get for a loan first and then go from there. 

Off-market leads from probate attorneys, solid agent connections, and understanding local zoning/ADU rules can unlock way better deals than just browsing the MLS or hoping for a wholesale gem.

The predicate for extreme asset protection measures comes from state law.

The law allows you to put all the deposits in one account.

Obtain a working knowledge of the local rental market. 

Talk to local investors, study rent comps, and understand how leasing cycles work in your chosen market.

My guests also booked last minute and were locals...