I would argue that equities are no less messy, simply more distant. 

Mainly water....there are probably cities in Utah, Nevada, California that could have huge water issues in the not too distant future if they don't already....and there could be plenty more around the country.   

I thought I would be able to use a distant family member as the GC and have his company run the flip for me.

I'd eliminate most of the exterior shots, keep the distant whole-house ones, remove the interior photos that emphasize the weird windows and add more photos of the kitchen and bath renovations. 

That you are starting now is going to pay off HUGELY in the not too distant future.  

For those trying to secure a distant place to live in the future, in person visits are not always possible.

It's a probate property and is owned by a distant relative of hers.

I was at a small family reunion today, and a distant relative asked my 83 year old father in law how many cattle he had.

I just don't personally like the Zillow model that seems to be even more distant as far as service is concerned, and I would not like to see that model gain a foothold in this industry. 

Drive for dollars, find long distant property owners and start sending letters.I just had some clients find a terrific four unit that was off market and definitely cash flowed well.