Finding an investor-friendly agent is key and they should be able to help you with 1-4, I'd say talking about those questions you asked would be the perfect thing to ask any potential agents you interview! 

Key findings?

Whether you start with a local deal or try investing out of state, the key is to do your research and take action.Best of luck, Julio

Quote from @Tod DuBois: Another Furnished Finder POT cancelled on me after I went out of my way and paid to review them on Key Check and signed up for Key Check contracts, made two contracts, allowed a pet and still, two days before the check-in, they did not sign.

That is NOT a turn key model.

Hi @Cosmo DePintoHave you considered a fully turn-key option? 

Here is a great read on turnkey investing; Turn-Key Revolution. 

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. 

The key to purchasing more real estate is by focusing on the fundamentals of the real estate.

They call the person that brings the schedule of real estate, net worth and liquidity to the deal the sponsor or key principle.