But then it was a nightmare of communication, we soon realized that we had to do a bunch of songs and dances to convince them to sponsor our deal, it took 4 or 5 days for them to make time to sit down with us only to tell us that we needed to schedule another meeting in another 4 or 5 days to get Tyler on the phone and let us try and convince them to sponsor us and by that time someone else was awarded the deal and we lost out.

I have pretty good communication with the potential buyer, besides being a landlord in the immediate area, he has been a family acquaintance for years.

QUESTION #4: HOW OFTEN DO YOU COMMUNICATE WITH INVESTORS AND WHAT DOES THAT LOOK LIKE?

I also don't quite see it as being the same as picking a city to live in - I went through that process in choosing Austin but that was more emotionally driven. 

You may want to somewhat hide your identity from tenants though, which if set up correctly, an LLC can do.You didn't ask, but... you should ask your PMC a LOT of questions about HOW they will execute their services and how they will communicate with you.

Personally if they were polite with good communication and nothing was stolen or damaged.

(Saw them starting to move out yesterday they have not communicated or provided fwd address) Let's call them The Rushmores, they have overstayed unpaid for 7 months now!)

I've always had this dream of a beach home within walking distance to the beach, so I realize I probably need to back up and look at this more objectively instead of emotionally when it comes to extra wear and tear and higher insurance costs, weather impacts, etc.

Ensure that you market and clearly communicate your requirements to prospective candidates.

It's mostly sales, good communication, and social media in today's world.