While I know alot about short sales (and basically did many before they were ever called shorts sales with regualted restrictions) you don't see me picking at any Realtor or investor who does them.

If you’re planning to focus on STR’s in Philadelphia, it’s important to understand the restrictive zoning and impact on STR’s. 

I agree that banks can be a bit overbearing sometimes, but there is should be some tighter restrictions on the daisy-chaining of these properties, sub-to, seller financing, etc. 

In the future, require vet record showing age, breed, and proof of required shots as part of pet addendum, proving not a restricted breed.

They move much faster than traditional banks and usually have fewer restrictions for qualifying.  

This is important, Eugene just enacted some restrictive regulations that will increase the cost of operating rental property and risk. 

Urban Growth Boundry restricts un checked growth so housing will always lag jobs in my mind.

I do know that there are pockets of restrictions all along the lake, including banned areas, so you need to do your due diligence.

So, if you are getting a DSCR style loan, those types of lenders won't have those types of restrictions. 

It was initially his idea to invest out of state, but looking at the current market potential of Fresno and California in general (new laws restricting investors to put offers until 30+ on market, etc) I agree with him that it doesn't make much sense to invest in local real estate.