I could feasibly pursue multiple deals and if I find one in an area I’d like to live once I move back to the US, I would like the option of renting it out while still living abroad but being able to move in and refi to a better deal with an owner-occupier loan.   

I've done it multiple times on primary residence and was just able to do it on an investment with a local CT bank. 

I like not worrying about being sued even when the local 2-bit lawyer tells me he is going to sue me (which he has done multiple times). 

When investing in real estate, having multiple exit strategies is key.For a single investment property, make sure the numbers work for both scenarios: 1️) If you decide to sell the home, the deal should produce a solid return. 2️) If you need to rent it out, the rental income should cover expenses and provide a profit.Flexibility is what saves you when things don’t turn out as planned.

A good host knows the local festival dates and has a handyman and multiple cleaners on call and ready to goa very clean house and quick turnaround are vital Im listed as a co-host but I pay a local host to do the legwork 

So multiple eyes and local expert providing local cost and input on lifespan.Here is an example that has a part that is more expensive in my market than other markets (unlike most parts that are the same everywhere, so in this case your cost should be significantly less due to both cheaper part and cheaper labor): $1600 40 gal water heater installed (this is good price for a plumber, a little high for a handyman) with expected life of 12 years (i have some that go 20 years and some that die in less that 10 years (mostly rheem die in less than 10 years), 12 years is fair life expectation

And I may get multiple bids for the same work, like multiple paint bids, multiple roof bids, multiple flooring bids, etc.

If done right, a well purchased flip will have multiple exits.

I run multiple properties in B or C area and I maintain super host status every quarter.

I've seen banks be very competitive with blanket loans that cover multiple properties and/or multi-family properties, e.g. 5+ units.Mortgage Brokers (obviously I'm biased) - Brokers have the ability to work with all of the above and can get you to the best lender for your scenario right away instead of having you waste your time with the wrong type of lender.