Build a reliable team on the ground, plan occasional visits, and trust your general contractor to handle the day-to-day.

Consult a tax advisor to optimize the use of passive losses and explore potential benefits from selling stocks.This post does not create a CPA-Client relationship.

Consult a good real estate attorney.

Specifically, is the rental market stable, and is reliable assistance (like agents, property managers, contractors, etc.) available?

Be sure to work with an agent or broker who understands your local market, and consult with a professional who understands all applicable tenants-rights laws related to your transaction.

If you can get hold of a reliable and honest builder, you will be fine (that does not mean you will not go over budget).Low CapEx, Little Hassle, Quality Tenant, You can manage new construction out of state for the first 5-years, Tenant May Stay longer (because is a brand new house) are few benefits of new construction.You may not be able to get close to the 1% rule though.Goodluck

Here are my thoughts about your decision to refinance.Process:Understand your current loan terms.Check your credit score.Compare offers from different lenders.Get your property appraised.Submit your application and go through closing.Considerations:Current interest rates vs. your existing rate.Amount of equity built in one year.Closing costs and fees.Your long-term financial goals.It's a complex decision, so consulting a financial advisor or mortgage specialist might be helpful.

It’s always a good idea to consult a local real estate attorney and title company for more accurate estimates in your area.

Should I offer to pay them for their consultation, or are these types of questions common as part of the PM vetting process and is a "courtesy service"?

And when I was doing aheroshome.org and doing 1 hour consultations to BP members for a donation to our Charity..