I found MLS data outside the are and got data from local property managers. 

We usually are responsible for connecting investors with teams on the ground or established local PM companies.

From tax stand point I would think you can separate from primary and be okay with IRS being that IRS will not be local code enforcement.  

I believe that you don't get returns (failed to deliver) with bulk mailers so you don't know which addresses are bad.That's the simple stuff.My advice is to do various mailings that you or some prepares locally, that go out immediately, using 1st class postage.

Please do this first:  contact the local Housing Authority office in your market area and obtain the landlord package.

Based on the information that you shared, if you haven’t already done so, I recommend connecting with a local expert.

As I said, check with local banks and credit unions.

As a lender, fostering relationships has been an incredible opportunity to create a healthier local real estate market. 

Quote from @Michael Challenger: I would connect with local people at meetups, that might give you some contacts for private money.

With that in mind, my first idea was to buy a condo or a house in my local area (Palm Springs, CA) and use it as a long term rental.