I'm a local Denver agent primarily, but I'm familiar with some of the challenges up in the mountains because no deals make sense running the quick math. 

As a major buyer in San Antonio, Dallas/ Fort Worth, and Houston, one challenge I often face is the limited inventory or lack of serious deals that come my way.

Albany, Syracuse, Utica, OH, PA, etc.) for cashflow.The challenge in these markets is that demand is through the roof, and many properties either sell at the asking price or above the asking price (Suffolk's sale price average was 1.5% ABOVE the asking price).If I were in your shoes, I'd explore local and remote multi-family options before considering the mid-term rental route.All the best!

Challenges?

Were there any challenges with shipping, customs, or delivery?

Anything else tends to be major challenge with SFR.  

@Donnie Jones I agree with Jonathan and Nathan, its definitely a challenge to start off wholesaling and takes a lot of grit and consistency to see success but not impossible.

I predict that the substantial home price cost savings and greater control they enable the buyer to have will make them grow in popularity.

And North Carolina at large has become a popular pick for both investors and relocators over the last half a decade or so.

This does pose a challenge since that real estate is a lot more expensive than if you go more west and south.