Candace,I have significant experience in taxation of Nonresident US Aliens, especially those with rental real estate holdings.If you have any questions, you can reach me at my contact information below.Nathaniel Busch, [email protected]

I can say that from working with accountants and CPA's on tax returns that I've learned a lot of specifics about real estate taxation that I didnt know before for sure.

Upcoming changes in China's taxation policy also has a lot of chinese/american investors buying up multifamilies as a way to avoid cap gains taxes.That being said the good deals are still there they just don't last long and seeing multiple offers is becoming commonplace.As a licensed agent in the area I would be happy to set you up with MLS access so you can see whats available and get an idea of market values.  

@Bill Walston and @Steven Hamilton II may want to say something about taxation of option contracts.

If you look close to SFU, you will have a student tenant market available.Now, if you plan to invest remotely, there are places - say in eastern Canada (Maritimes) or in the U.S.A rust-belt / mid-west - where your 30K will go a lot further (In parts of the mid-west U.S.A. where you could purchase a duplex for 30K).Please take the time to read through the materials here on Bigger Pockets, much of it is universally applicable, but in the areas of financing, regulations and taxation it will be U.S.A. biased ... however, there are many Canadians here on the site who can field questions for you.

I have a LLC because I did not want to be subject to the double taxation of a Corp.  

CPAs have had additional training and education in taxation and corporate work and they are required to sign off on financial statements of public companies and non-profit corporations.

Fourth, LLC's don't impact your taxation.  

Nevada & Texas offer the best asset protection and favorable taxation for LLC formation.Since you are partnering on the deal, it is best for you to get your legal ducks in a row, prior to closing on the property. 

Most counties are not going to fight you over the small amount of the HO exemption.And if you are going to be an investor you should educate yourself in Revenue and Taxation codes.