Now, the owner can vet the operator one time, offload routine maintence to the operator, and receive the rent they've agreed to in the lease, possibly for years to come.

We have been working to save up to purchase a primary residence (in Boston or the surrounding suburbs), however, since Massachusetts is currently one of the most expensive housing markets in the country, I’m wondering if it would be more beneficial to purchase my first investment property (out-of-state) first (instead of waiting for home prices to hopefully drop a little in Mass).2.

I had a few contracts that I was going to use ,however , I agree with you , I'm not to confident in them. 

Otherwise, I agree, it is not that critical.  

I agree that they can be money-making machines.

👏 Agree, this is the kind of data that can help you stay ahead of the curve.

.: Have agreed on terms on a hard money loan to an investor I know well.

I agree that unit count can be misleading.

I agree with @Michael Smythe to consider the time to save vs the appreciation. 

Agree with that.