Avoiding the occupants from squatting is best addressed with background checks, employment verifications, and references before signing the lease.

@Benjamin Ying The only way to cash flow in the current market is to employ a higher effort strategy like STR, MTR, rent by the room, etc.The "cash flow on paper" properties in stagnant markets or C-D class neighborhoods are probably not the type of places that you want to own long term.

I did all my other due diligence like asking for paystubs, W2s, Tax returns, Employment verification, bank statements etc etc and did not see any red flags overall.

These platforms are affordable and offer comprehensive reports (credit, background, eviction history) without you having to handle sensitive information directly.Verify Employment and Landlord History: Your plan to request pay stubs and a landlord reference is solid.

After a year or two we intend to buy a larger property in the same area and partner with some friends on it but I do believe a boots on the ground person employed only by you is KEY to executing anything if you are not in the country yourself.

I would employ full-time paid employees as moderators, not VAs or people willing to help (although they are great for doing it) because it is what makes the site better to get rid of the dust.2.

I never bothered to try talking to a lender because my credit score isn’t great and I’m self-employed.

You may also need to provide additional documentation, such as proof of income and employment, and may need to have a co-signer who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.In terms of buying with an LLC, it can be a good option for some foreign buyers, as it can provide additional liability protection and potentially offer tax benefits.

Have you been employed as an Abstractor? 

Having watched many prior co-workers get paid, cash their check at the casino, and promptly deposit it all into a slot machine I can tell you with pretty good certainty that casinos don't have a positive effect on disposable income and good use of the existing income in the area surrounding :)Are there solid local employers OTHER than the casino in a 15-minute drive?