-Add value: Look for properties that have the potential for value-add improvements, such as cosmetic upgrades, energy-efficient upgrades, or additional amenities.

Markets are efficient and investors/buyers/sellers will just find a different way to reach their transaction hurdles.

Also worth taking a look at cities and metros in person, although the flight and hotel/air bnb can add up, you can generally write those costs off, and in general getting on the ground and feeling the energy of a city or market can tell you a lot about the intangibles there.  

How do you organize your buyers list for efficient use?

Would make sense if you can set it up properly - use efficient & effective management and make it more interesting / exciting / instagram-able then the competition.

From virtual property tours to blockchain-based transactions, technology is making the market more accessible and efficient.

They were efficient and thorough, and they are certified (IICRC).

The location of the lender doesn't necessarily impact your chances of getting a mortgage or the efficiency of the process however, local lenders have a better understanding of the local real estate market and regulations as they are more familiar with appraisers and other closing professionals in the area which can expedite the process and you will get a more personal touch and easier communication.

This was due to the economies of scale, and efficiencies I just couldn't get myself. 

I used to work for a utility in operations, power generation, energy trading and in Strategic planning, and know just enough about the electrical grid to be dangerous.Renewables are a significantly larger impact than when I was working in the business.