In 2018, we had a property turn and the net cost to you out of pocket was around $500 (costs to repair minus the security deposit that was returned to you.)

It's a riskier loan given you do not carry a social security, no US credit & no experience.Due to increased risk comes mitigation (Lower LTV & Higher Rates)

I’ve been securing great deals for clients in the Hampton Rd area. 

Since they are responsible for maintaining the relationship with you after the transaction closes, this approach adds an extra layer of confidence and security to your investment.If you can't find an investor agent that you like or trust that is also a Property Manager or works under a brokerage that has a Property Management Division, I would ask the agent if they recommend a Property Management Company.

Consider all the things that could go wrong and see if the lease addresses them: unauthorized pets or tenants, early termination, security deposit, lease violations, late rent, eviction, lawn maintenance, parking, etc.5.

Prioritize tackling critical issues and beefing up security to keep your property safe and sound.

Thanks for the feedback—it really makes me step back and think about this whole situation.To answer your question about the hard money loan: I went that route because I needed to close quickly, and hard money was the fastest way to secure the deal.

Consider all the things that could go wrong and see if the lease addresses them: unauthorized pets or tenants, early termination, security deposit, lease violations, late rent, eviction, lawn maintenance, parking, etc.5.

Glad we're secured, but nothing in rei is passive.

It depends on a lot of factors; primarily the local jurisdiction rules that may limit lease changes (in Portland/Oregon rent, security deposit, screening fees, an no-cause evictions are heavily regulated).