Hi Roy - I just called TD, it looks like they won't touch markets where they do not have a presence (Ohio), however BMO does do this, so I am on my way for getting these set up (virtually) 

I know Fountain has a military renting presence and it seems to be more on the SF side.

Nice to see the Canadian presence! 

While I understand that my presence is needed for a large majority of the transactions and progress as an investor, I am wondering how I can begin building my portfolio from my current location.  

Different management companies have a stronger presence in different communities.

I'm sure it's possible... but having a physical presence is really important for student rentals.

I am looking at diving into the real estate investing field and heard biggerpockets was a great source to beginning and maintaining a presence in the field.

A couple other folks to vet who have had a strong presence here in BP are @Steven Hamilton II and @Brandon Hall

There may be a community police presence that is targeted for students and also rental registration.  

Anyone of them has the potential to be a deal-breaker, the presence of several of them makes walking (or running) away from this deal a no-brainer.