Also, make sure to connect with local contractors to get estimates on your prospect properties.

Johnny, sometimes the best lenders aren’t local.

Tacoma is a fantastic market with a lot of opportunity, so you’re starting in the right place.Here’s how you can connect with local experts and start building your skills:Attend local meetups and networking events.

@Jennie Berger gave you the whole kit & caboodle on Chicago zoning so I don't have a ton to ad, however, I'd highly encourage you to engage an architect like @Samuel Pavlovcik or @Prashanth Mahakali, both are awesome local Chicago resources.

Best bet though is a local community business bank.. 

Be very careful who you take advice from online, you should get involved with a local attorney and a local realtor.

My suggestions:* Requiring code compliance and safety equipment is absolutely valid and should be part of the regulations* Requiring owners live within 15 miles is not necessary since poor hosts whether they're local or distant will violate the 3-5 warning system and earn a suspension.

Just do thorough research on the local market and have a solid plan for managing the properties remotely.Good luck!

Ensure the property’s price aligns with market trends, and work with a local realtor to help with due diligence and negotiation.Good luck!

I've also signed up for New Orleans REI meet ups in the upcoming weeks in hopes of making valuable connections in the local market.