I generally work with home owners looking for long term management, but I do work with a local broker with access to off-market deals, and he sees a lot of activity in the area.

@Nancy Bachety how about talking to your local senator or congressman 

Talk to your local building department for the codes they follow and requirement(s).

To invest out of state successfully, focus on building a strong local team (agent, PM, contractors), automating deal analysis, and using contingencies to protect yourself.

The Yale Law Journal article, "Zoned Out: How Zoning Law Undermines Family Law’s Functional Turn," highlights this issue, noting that while family law has evolved to recognize diverse family structures, zoning laws have lagged behind, potentially hindering innovative housing solutions like co-living.Challenges for Co-Living InvestorsFor real estate investors interested in co-living, these restrictive definitions can lead to:Legal Barriers: Difficulty obtaining permits or approvals for co-living spaces due to non-compliance with traditional family definitions in zoning codes.Operational Challenges: Potential fines or legal disputes arising from housing arrangements that don't conform to local zoning definitions of a household.Market Limitations: Reduced ability to meet the growing demand for affordable, shared housing solutions.Advocacy for ReformThe Bloomberg article, "Why Are Zoning Laws Defining What Constitutes a Family?"

local REIA groups are filled with investors looking to buy properties.

Are you investing in your local market?

@Tiana Lazard check with your local municipality, but unlikely you can claim homestead unless it is still your legal address - and you want tenants getting your mail.

Just do thorough research on the local market and have a solid plan for managing the properties remotely.Good luck!

One way to save some money, especially if you are local is to split the job.