As for the rest of it, you can find a lot of useful tips on past forum posts along with podcasts and youtube material on the topic (BP and other RE sources).We've self managed STRs for a few years.

Yes, there isn't much involved here either to teach HUD classes, the material is prepared, you teach it.

If this stretches to 9–12 months, holding costs could climb fast.I like your point about tightening the rehab costs, I think there’s room to bring it closer to $100K with the right contractor and materials.

The Registered Agent will record the documents on your behalf so only their name and information appear on the documents.

You should split the costs - labor and materials together.

We had to repaint the entire unit because the material he used left oil stains everywhere.

Your roof and exterior material?

You need a reserve to handle unexpected costs, particularly during the first 1-2 years of ownership and learning how to manage the property. 

Drive around your area and find homes that are currently being remodeled (big dumpster outside, several crews/contractors) get out of the car and see if the investor is there if not talk to guy in charge and network with them. 

And this doesn't even address the risks they take coming to this country, like the women and children that are sexually abused or trafficked, the men that are killed, the drugs that are hauled over, etc.2.