it does allow you to repair things outside of the home to a limit. 

However, I had to subordinate the sellers note to 2nd position (hint: set up that language in advance to streamline the process, if that's the direction you're going to go).Since the ARV was high enough, and the potential income would support the mortgage and expenses, it all worked out. 

If you want to be truly passive while living abroad you could consider a DST transfer or syndication where you transition your properties to professional management and get paid as a limited partner and not have to worry about any sort of property management takes.

I would also make sure you have a good amount set aside if something hits the fan.  

I've also leveraged their webhooks to automate additional things on my end like setting the thermostat to the appropriate temperature an hour before the guest check-in and turning it off after they check out.

It wouldn't hurt to set up time to meet with agents, property managers, lenders, and others while you’re visiting your markets of interst.

There are a very limited and reliable few of lenders that do true DSCR 2nds.

Then think I could have 2 sub meters put in (believe the limit is 1 per main water meter).

By diversifying, but still investing in the most promising deals, you limit the possibility of a devastating loss without limiting your upside.  

So back to the drawing board, but for myself the big takeaway is to continue on the course that I set out on and too continually learn and stay involved with goals that I set out on and to stay focused.