So, the question is not whether to invest remotely, but where to invest.Investment TeamRegarding properties in distant cities: While books, podcasts, seminars, and websites offer general knowledge, you'll ultimately purchase a specific property in a specific location—each with its own unique conditions.

Another aspect that's important is to communicate to your relinquishing property buyer (Boston condo) that you're going be doing a 1031X and that they can offer you flexible closing time.

What do contractors typically charge to come out to a potential property and walk through and fill out a SOW with pricing?    

You can offer to buy these properties and assume the existing loan.  

Hi Duane, my firm offers a Premier-approval product and can fund multiple deals at a time. 

Over the decades, today's interest rates are historically pretty typical.

These area are offering a good balance between appreciation and decent cashflow. 

Be sure to explore all around the forums as well as many of the FREE tools that Bigger Pockets provides.I am on the lending side of things and am always happy to hop on a call to discuss loan options that are out there, even if not offered by my resources.

Some design and amenity ideas:+ Welcoming living space with plush seating for family hangouts+ Coffee bar or stocked tea station for early mornings before campus events+ Dining table or breakfast nook perfect for family meals+ Dedicated workspace for parents who need to check in on workFor sports fans, tap into their game-day energy and make your STR the go-to spot for a fun, convenient stay:+ Big, comfortable seating & a great TV setup (think oversized couch, streaming sports channels)+ Game-day essentials like a mini fridge stocked with game-day snacks/drinks+ Outdoor space with a grill & seating for pre- or post-game gatherings+ Good parking (sports fans hate scrambling)+ Team spirit decor touches (subtle, not tacky—think framed sports prints, not full-on mascot murals)Your design & reviews will do most of the marketing but to market directly to these guests:🎯 List your STR on sites where parents and alumni book (if allowed)🎯 Partner with local businesses—coffee shops, sports bars, or tailgate services—where your ideal guests hang out🎯 Optimize your listing title and description with phrases like “Perfect for Visiting Parents & College Game Days”🎯 Time any discounts/promotions around major campus events—homecoming, graduation, big rivalry gamesThink of it this way, you’re not just offering a place to stay—you’re creating an experience they’ll want to book again and again.

You don't have to spend money  out of the pocket on searching Redfin, making some phone calls, making offers and posting ads on Craiglist or whatever local media you want to use to sell the property.