I’m sure others here are also running into this issue, so any recommendations and referrals would be greatly appreciated!

Additionally, not all transaction types support Locations, meaning you'll have to create journal entries to correct them—requiring a solid understanding of debits and credits, which can be time-consuming and error-prone.Instead, I recommend biting the bullet and upgrading to QuickBooks Online Plus for each entity.

Nathan above gave some good software recommendations, any of which would probably work well.

Would definitely recommend reaching out to a couple RE attorneys to chat.

BiggerPockets also has a calculator to analyze deals, and I highly recommend you start this as soon as possible, even if you are not ready to buy.

To get access to the maximum amount of equity, I would recommend Tower Credit Union.

I generally recommend if you're not going to buy a property in the city/market where you currently live, the next best place to look is where you have family (and presumably a place that you'll visit relatively often and easily).What is your price point and are you looking for turn-key properties or something along the lines of a "fixer upper", assuming you buy in Peoria or a similar priced Midwest market?

It is highly specific, my recommendation is to contact the city directly with qualifying questions or have us do it for you :) In general Astoria is also a No-Go with the exception of commercially zoned properties.

I would not recommend and did not renew my lease with them. 

Bigger Pockets is a great place to learn and connect with fellow investors.If you’re looking to invest long distance, I definitely recommend building your core-4 team.