I did a very similar automation campaign for my guests.One useful tip  (you covered it on finding the apartment) is that I like to record a full walk through YouTube to show how to work things.

I'm sure you could...as long as you're actually paying that expense to someone...oh wait, that person would be yourself...so you'd need to both record the income of you paying yourself as well as the expense of yourself paying you. 

It may be a little more challenging with a new investor that has no track record with you.  

If you don't have your broker's license you would need to find a broker of record for you to manage other people's rentals and come to some agreement with them.

My partner was not on any official record.

Most importantly what do you know about the sponsor and what is their track record.

If the plan is for them to live in the house until they are no longer able (either they pass away or move to a nursing home), then it may be that you and your husband are paying for all of the repairs and things like replacing the roof...or maybe they will treat it as their own home and simply give you the money each month to cover all of the expenses.I'd be concerned if he has siblings to make it clear that the house is yours (though with the in-laws paying for everything the siblings may see it differently) and what happens if you divorce?

Are you going to fly out to view the property you buy or trust your agent and inspector have them video record a tour?

"Freddie Mac — the main industry source for mortgage rates — has been keeping records since 1971.

For our clients, we typically look at the most recent appraisal, county records, or property tax statements from the year of purchase.