Am I correct that a condo, depending on area and neighborhood, could be a lower risk/maintenance investment for an absentee landlord as opposed to other properties?

@Jacob Hrip For a first-time investor, financing options like a HELOC or private funding depend on your strategy and risk tolerance.

Hi Kana - I think it depends on your budget of course.

Quote from @Treza Edwards: I would be looking at this as a market-dependent change.

Depending on where exactly the property is located they may have some different rules/laws in place.

I have a couple STR investors do this here in the winter months depending on the events coming to town

@Mario Morales, to echo Bradley, I would say this depends on what you are lacking in your own knowledge base.To some (probably many investors) the agent is simply an initial filter for them.  

Depending on the type of replacement cost (functional, common construction, etc.) you may or may not be able to get reimbursed or replace with the exact materials that were there before. 

Look for shops that test and offer guarantees.For valued tenants or premium units: New appliances might be worth the investment for their reliability and long-term durability.Ultimately, your decision depends on your goals.

Depends what you're looking for really, it might be worth discussing your strategies and goals with a broker, a national lender, and a local CU.