All of these are within a half-hour's drive or slightly more. 

While we have not yet secured our first property, we have spent the last year+ educating ourselves, networking, driving for dollars, and substantially reducing our debt load.  

They have one of the tougher credentialing processes out there, but they have excellent data that goes deep with relatives, neighbors, associates, etc.. 

I drive for a dollar, actually I walk for a dollar, finding great deals in the hot spots of Mexico City (Condesa and Roma) How did you finance this deal?

Also a bit worried about finding renters since its a bit far from the University, but still within a 10 min driving distance.Thank you!

If you want the best coverage in case something happens, call an independent agent and tell them you want a policy with Chubb...then be prepared to write a big fat check for that premium.As Dave Ramsey used to say, drive into any major city in the US and look at the names on the largest buildings downtown...usually either an insurance company or a bank, or both.

You can drive one hour a month to drive by and ensure the place is still standing, or ask your tenant to send photos.

I got deep into loan types and rules and became a lender =) Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

She will tell you anything you want to hear and is not a reliable source of information.Personally, I would dig really, really deep or (my more likely choice) deny the application.

That will help narrow down the questions - if an investment you'll focus on the high tourist area with major airports flying in/out, good local transportation system, less than an hour drive from the airport, a low crime rate etc.If personal then you'll look for an environment that suits your taste (tropical, party central, secluded, dive-friendly, luxury, affordable etc).Almost every island I've visited has realtors from America who decided to setup shop there and help out-of-state investors purchase property.