correct. they typically are hired by the lender or are on their team

It is always worth looking at returns if you had to hire a PM. 

On the other hand, I feel one of the main advantages of passive investments (via syndication/crowdfunding) is that I can hire a manager who has years more experience than I can ever hope to obtain myself.

Less theft vandalism shootings etc . and getting those paid off in 7 years is the way to go.. you get them paid off then you can hire a full time GM to take over your roll of owner enforcer.. 

It is important that you hire professionals who have experience working with investors on Visas.

It is important that you hire professionals who have experience working with foreign investors.

Also consider if you're going to self manage or hire a pm.  

They are not owned by the client who hires the architect/engineer.

But, if the cost is fairly nominal, maybe under a couple grand, and you have no experience in real estate, including owning your own home and hiring contractors for that, then it is likely worth it.I would always start with a deep assessment of where you feel you don't have adequate knowledge.  

If for some reason you are not able to do tours in person you might want to consider hiring a leasing agent or property manager to do it.