I used to own rentals here in Maine 20 years ago, and I invested in western PA about 11 years ago, bought like 4 cheapie rehab houses at once, and failed because I couldn't spend the time to go there every month to check up on things. 

There is a group call Western Mass REIA which you can find on FB. 

The entire western world of real estate operates on a cycle starting on the first of every month. 

That's what myself, 10 other guys and half a dozen bird dogs are going to be doing in western kansas in 3 weeks. 

Depending on where you are in the world (or relation to it) could dramatically influence the cost, availability and reliability of workers.My first project was in Port Orford Oregon (the most western point in the continental US) and I was 30 years old with zero construction experience and three hours from the nearest Lowes or Home Depot.

Sucks they got a (typical) activist a**hole S.F. lawyer involved :( Is this a registered buyout?

The crack goes around 3/4 of the house on the North, East, and Western facing sides. 

I live in Western Washington in South Sound Pierce County with my Wife and four kids.

I am on the Western Side of PA, but that's my two cents.  

I'm on the Lakeshore of western Michigan (Muskegon/Grand Haven).