I'm fairly handy, but just to balance things with my 9-5 job, focusing on something that just needs superficial updates or something nearly turn-key is probably best. 

This implies the return has to be via cash flow but you indicate with your numbers it is pretty close to break even.  

Key items to rehab on the second home to bring the property value up for the refi, determining which lenders/servicing companies will be favorable, Identifying good properties to invest in altogether.

Disclosure is the key.

Here are key questions to ask before committing:1.

It’s an interesting approach, but ensuring a strong screening process and a legally solid agreement is key.

When I had my own real estate practice, I advised landlords on tenant issues, negotiated cash for keys, and filed evictions. 

You could certainly reach this demographic, but it could also cost you substantially more than the return.For the money, your best bet is probably a dedicated website for your property with the key words that you want to convey.

Do you have any idea of the price point you can afford and are you looking for turn-key properties or something along the lines of a "fixer upper"?

One of the key challenges I’m facing is understanding the financing options available to someone without Canadian residency or a local credit history.From my research, it seems that a 35% down payment is often required, with interest rates around 7.5-8.5% for non-residents.