A well written management contract should clearly spell out what is expected of both the PMC and the owner, to PROTECT both and avoid misunderstandings.

It could provide the belief that an unpermitted unit built next month will get protected.  

How can I best protect the seller as well as myself?

And what kind of protection are you referring to?

This gives much better diversification protection across geographies, asset types, strategies, investment subclasses etc. versus putting all the eggs into one basket.The downside is that it's not for everyone, and a person has to be comfortable with turning over control to someone else.

It’s worth researching to see if this might be a good fit for your situation.Lease Structure and Clauses: Work with an attorney to draft a lease with strong clauses for late fees, maintenance responsibilities, and other terms to protect your interests.Target Stable Tenant Profiles: While no tenant is risk-free, targeting tenant pools that historically have more stability (e.g., retirees, dual-income households, or tenants relocating for work) may reduce risk.Stay Up to Date on Landlord-Tenant Laws: Understanding your rights and obligations can help you navigate issues more effectively if they arise.That said, if the potential risks are keeping you up at night and the financial pressure of an eviction would be too much, selling may still be the best option for peace of mind.

(Creating a contract to protect the both of us if things go south) Nippon Real Estate does a lot of podcasts and provides value for foreigners wanting to invest in Japan.Properties newer than 2000 are structurally sound to last a level 6 earthquake.

That means, when they are damaged it doesn't eat up the whole security deposit leaving more money to cover other damages better protecting me. 3.

Also, if your state allows it, add a clause in the lease and attach a fee to protect you if they leave without notice. 

It's staged with a daybed + trundle (plus 2 chairs, coffee table and TV; its a good size), but the windows do not open, so egress by stairs only.