It's people who understand that it takes effort to become successful, typically from CA at this point, and have a way of showing those characteristics, do best.

Our short-term residential investment property loans are typically 60-80% LTV and all are personally guaranteed by the borrower(s) -- we pull credit, background and PFS on each guarantor, verify experience, verify liquidity, underwrite the property, neighborhood and zip code.

A lot of it has to do with location and time.If they are local owners looking at 1-2 LTR properties, I'll assist with identifying cash flowing/near cash flowing properties, assist them in the purchase as their buyers agent and assist with tenant procurement, listing, etc. but they can typically handle day to day management from there.Furnished properties, whether that be MTR or STR, are a lot more involved, as I'm sure you're aware of!

Condo's are usually on the cheaper end of cost for appraisal reports, typically not $750 (but if it's a high end condo or in an area with there's some complexity, the fee can reflect that). 

All too typical park owner who took all the profit out of the park without reinvesting in the business then wants to sell you the potential he was too cheap to invest in. 

Typically it would be the tenants responsibility to provide access.

I think the heating cost that the OP mentioned is reasonable and typical.

It's near impossible to cash flow when most homes are selling for above $750K, Taxes and Insurance added in the PITI payment is higher than the rents.You can buy a Duplex 2 unit for example in either FL, IN, or OH and not pay more than $200K the rents are typically $1200-$1500 a door.

Typically lenders can lend up to 50% of what your gross income is.

However, required downpayments were typically 40-50%, and would be difficult without a residency visa.