I am curious though, if these deals are as sweet as they sound...I’m also curious to hear about the complications of owning/investing overseas?

I design every house and multifamily and mixed use development we do including every component, assembly, etc.

I feel these are basics, though I've seen mixed opinions elsewhere about salt and pepper.

Based on today's date, I want to see a sweet spot of a Late May booking for the 4th of July.

Also since the first purchase would be FHA (3.5%), I would still have money saved for the down payment on the next, probably in the range of around 50k, also could get a partner for the second, though since this will be my first two purchases, I'm leary about adding a partner already into the mix. 

Many mix these up and get sued.Regarding how much SD to charge in general, many landlords just charge the max. 

It can bring in steady cash, help you build wealth, and mix up your investments.

I personally think there is a sweet spot of deals in the $2m - 8 or 9 mil range where institutional people shy away as it's not big enough and it weeds out a lot of other smaller investors. 

I think you are probably mixing apples and oranges.To have a capital gains tax of $30k you would have had a gain/profit of over $150k.I suspect most of the tax you owe is from depreciation recapture, which is taking back the depreciation deductions you had while owning the property. 

There are just too many variables to consider.So, just make sure your calls are short and sweet: Get the high-level facts and then wrap it up!