*It lacks a grounding conductor.

Plus, the lack of state income tax in some of these regions can boost your returns.I work with investors similar to you who aim to expand and diversify their portfolios.

But the diversification may be through a number locations of the same type property, as expertise in one area trumps diversifying into areas where you lack a competitive advantage.  

Other one is to do collections via an agency, but AFAIK, they need judgement again.

Meaning truly intrinsic(2x DSCR not 1x DSCR), then roll the dice and lever the minimum you need to get the deal done and understand to put more to reserves than anything else for the first 3-5 years from your current and new property.The risk:reward ratio is very low when you factor in a lack of liquidity.

I find myself lacking direction and my steps.

I looked at local companies, and while many locals have great boots on the ground, they lack the economies of scale and systems like what Avantstay uses to attract, vet, monitor, and enforce. 

Tourism (LTR transitioning to STR) and lack of housing  make it a very strong market if you don't mind a niche. 

Quite prudent to stay away from such lack of quality in regards to REI agents.

I'd like to understand @Devin James, from the domestic developer mind of things; If there stands a confusion, lack of comprehension on how to address housing compilation in a given region, city, MSA etc., why not look to Europe?