Asking your agent (or other on-the-ground person) to look at the property and take pictures in your place? 

can anyone you know in person vouch for this lender? 

Once we had the home inspection I was able to have the seller credit us at closing $8k...of which the escrow could not credit the entire amount and so I had the seller write up a personal check for $2000 How did you finance this deal?

They not only went to our office, but also the personal residences of myself and Kevin Bupp.

.: This is one I’m considering…they’re active in the local RIA here in Orlando (CFRI.net):https://sdrhouses.com/ I know Rob Arnold (broker) personally.

I personally own investment properties in Columbus, Ohio. 

I would personally recommend going with the full central air system.

Personally I would put on Airbnb/VRBO with 30 night minimums and also Zillow & possibly Furnished Finder.

Once you get a mortgage later, that home would have to be bought personally since only people can get mortgages. 

I have purchased many homes in the past as personal residences and always with the help of an agent.