However, you forgot/didn't mention the Costa del Sol, which, from an international real estate point of view (the topic here), is what matters.

One way we fight this is with photo verification pre-lease signing and not approving renters who don't view the place in person, our credit underwriting software also flags apps that have a high likelihood of fraud.

And from my point of view ONE property one investor is far safer than the syndication model for most passive investors .. kind of like Investors making a HML where they are the only beneficiary ..

I just wanted a general industry over view of markup. 

OTM = General, overhead/widescreen view of nationwide market tends.BPRE = Detailed ways specific people are making money in real estate.

I think BiggerPockets is an amazing platform for networking and learning from other investors.

I personally also bought a couple two flats to get started and I always looked at it from an overall expense view. 

We don't use the platform but from what I've heard, it's a great option!  

It's all the about the location and the view.

Look for distressed properties through online platforms or local agents.