I’m part of the Rob Lawrence Team, an investor-focused real estate team based in South Eastern PA.

For example, an algorithm can't compare a property that charges a flat fee for utilities vs one that charges based on use. 

Across the board, the worse the neighborhood, the better the cash flow, the better the neighborhood, the trade off for tenants base, better schools, low crime, etc etc.

Since I'm based in Tampa, I don't look outside and compare markets. 

I would underwrite buyers based on stability of income, financial payment history & ability to pay.

Across the remaining portfolio, I have a really good amount of equity which I can tap into based on opportunities but need to finish cleaning up my personal debt prior to going that route to get best rates etc.

Hey @Benjamin Jones -  Fellow Japan-based investor here.  

I believe it's because the property is being sold "as-is," and they are unwilling to make repairs or negotiate based on findings.

Start to evaluate deals based on the income approach and you'll do much better long term investing. 

Real estate is so localized that most federal based policy changes don't have massive influence.I can see him (semi-)privatizing Freddie/Fannie.