These can be great for making initial connections and learning about specific markets.Since you're thinking long-term, consider spending some time in your target markets to build relationships with agents, property managers, and contractors.

Well even if the rent is equal to the mortgage, you'll still be in the negative after repairs, CapEx, vacancy, etc.Why would you specifically be thinking of investing at a negative cash flow?

You find the numbers, and strategies that work in any specific market you choose, then wait until a property pops up that meats that criteria, and jump on it."

I would recommend getting a free cost/benefit analysis to see if you specifically could benefit from the study.Real Estate Professional Status

If so, it would make sense to figure that out first before deciding on a specific area.

Assuming it wasn't addressed in your PSA specifically then it likely should be them, but the reality is it is likely you.

You have to dig a little deeper there are questions that need to be addressed and VOE's filled out with specifics in order to use certain incomes and "stipends".Similar to a traveling nurse who get housing, meals, and other income. 

There can always be a situation specific to you where your intent was to hold but something cause you to change that. 

@Pedro Martins,Sorry - it's not based on any specific type of loan.

@Ryan Daniel  I will preface this with the fact that I have a legal background, specifically with estate planning and asset protection in relation to real estate investments.