I do not have many resources, but I am comfortable taking some risk and relying on my intelligence and research.

What do you normally look for in choosing a lender? 

Just off the top of my head, I wouldn't feel super comfortable with non-US properties because properties in the US are held to HUD code (at a minimum).

@Mordechai ChaimovitzGreat points made above along with what @Daniel C. said referencing @Tom Shallcross's post on another thread.The context and variables for each individual investor will vary but many people are comfortable with getting a 2-4 unit that will reduce their out of pocket expense compared to their previous rent with the intent to do rehab and raise rents over time.

Get out of your comfort zone.

Just make sure you guys are comfortable with the area before pulling the trigger.

Provided I can establish a solid investment plan tailored to their financial needs/comforts such as debt ratios and income, they would be more than happy to offer me some financial control.Additionally, If I wanted to, for the sake of building my own personal wealth, I admittedly have the luxury of taking a loan from my parents.

Because I will never go into anything that is losing intentionally it's like asking me to choose A or B: take this 50k check or write a random 50k check to a politician.

I’m going to echo what Tim Delaney and Rick Albert said: $8,000 isn’t a lot to work with, no matter where you choose to invest.

However, between the much lower mortgage interest rate in Europe and a better tax treatment in the US, I'd choose the former.