One of the little tricks I tell people to use, though it isn't fool-proof, is to use Google Earth to take a virtual walk around the property's neighborhood.

@JR Rivas You can negate virtually all risks and expenses related to maintenance, vacancy, and eviction (and of course utilities) by doing a rent to own.

Virtually no way to enter from outside.

Hi all,Context:I've been using a Property Management company that I loved for a while.They were pretty independent and was just able to do manage without much of my intervention.But probably 6 months ago, they've switched to using Virtual Assistants and they are now fairly incompetent; instead of making their own decisions, they're asking me for every little thing.

Late December rents are ~$250/night (weekend and weekday are virtually the same with New Years Eve being highest).The prices our PM sets results in very few vacancies. 

The government pays part of the rent and tenant is responsible for part of the rent - the ratio is determined by the government.Pros - government guarantees the rent and depending on the situation, the rent checks are virtually automatic and like clockwork.

@Mike TerrySelf-directed IRA funds can be invested into virtually anything except collectibles and life insurance contracts.

The issue is that the initial cash flow is lower than most locations (and much lower than the virtually 0 appreciation markets). 

I am thinking of hiring a virtual assistant to run the show on this side of the table so I can focus on sales. 

I own a luxury streetwear company in India and a contemporary art gallery focusing on virtual reality art, both of which I am currently managing from Chicago.