I am working with folks in the Scottsdale area who purchase properties around the $800k-900k range (5+ bedrooms with large lots) and remodeling to be purpose-built short-term rentals.

They are usually built with some degree of security in mind.

My situation the house was built in 1963 so the electrical panel was in a closet.

But not waiting means learning, prepping, and building relationships, while also building your financial foundation.

Still on my radar, although I may stick to slab/stick built basic build designs.

I've done some research with suppliers in China who have built modular homes for the US market, and it looks like we can buy modular homes for about $30-$40 PSF.

I'm not sure what his cash investment was, but he built them himself so he's probably pulling a decent ROI like you and was pleased with their performance.Anecdotally, we saw a big, new cabin on Little Bear Rd up the road from there that was for sale. 

So its good to team up with good people to help you build up a good foundation so you have the best chance of success with people and systems. 

Keep until we die and let the kids inherit on a step up basis. headache but built in inflation protection, property appreciation, and tax benefits. 

You don't say if you currently own a home or not in the US.If you do, the easiest way to finance a purchase like this would be to borrow against the equity you have built in your own home in the US.