Typically its done for open space or use for community property (ie. fire station location or other county use) and typicaly would assist in increasing tax base.  

However, I don’t have a US-based W2 (but work full time for an American tech company in their London office). 

The single biggest issue in my way currently is obtaining enough cash, whether it be my own, or through partnerships or family/friend-based lending (which I am very hesitant about to begin with as this could potentially strain relationships unnecessarily when money is involved).

I’m based out of Lehi, Utah, and have always been fascinated by the potential of real estate to create opportunities and build wealth.After spending time learning about the industry and what it takes to succeed, I’m ready to dive in and start making deals happen!

Your first challenge is - you shouldn't buy based upon zip code!

Is it better to diversify your portfolio in one geography, tenant base, style of property (SFH, Multifamily, Apartment).

Based on the info you provided, it seems like a no brainer to make it a rental.

Then I spoke to a company that does business lines of credit, based on personal FICO scores.

(They could have a base amount of 1,000kwh for $120/mo.

Getting a base 8-15% return instead of 2-3% before actual “profit” puts you way ahead of the cash buyer.