Here are additional comments:1) Buying out of state removes any local knowledge you have from assisting in your success, including knowing areas, people and costs. - We always recommend buying your first rental locally if possible and DIY managing to learn as much as possible before investing OOS.2) Lots of crooks and incompetents in the PMC world:( They both cost you money.- As already stated, you'll have a small portfolio.

I pull permits for removal of load bearing walls, addition of bathrooms or bedrooms, addition of footage.

You're also able to work with the utility company to install an additional meter.

Am I getting greedy to ask for an additional seller credit at closing to help offset some of repairs needed?

If you’re just starting or want to minimize risk, house hacking is a killer move—grab a duplex, live in one unit, rent the other, and let it pay down your mortgage while you scale up.

Also there is an additional tax on the returns due to the financing. 

These offer a predictable return in the 4.25% range right now with minimal interest rate risk.

Additionally, your brother would inherit your cost basis in the property, which could result in significant capital gains tax if he sells the property later.

I've added a few things for very minimal cost that guests really love and increased revenue ~34% year over year.

Keep your payment at no more than 35% of your income and minimize your credit card and auto debt.