2) Their contractor must be properly licensed and insured and we require copies of all this.

@Henry Clark Your writing skills is excellent.I learned & enjoyed at the same time.

I’ve been coaching new investors for a while, and I always enjoy hearing about what brings people to real estate.

When I look back real estate investing and rehabbing houses is akin to games I enjoyed playing as a child.

I personally learned I enjoy local investing in residential properties.

I have no social sphere or contacts family or friends in Oregon (I don’t know anyone besides my fiancée).Goals: continue to have flexible schedule while enjoying what I do (selling real estate) and making good money.

I hope you enjoy these books recommendations!

However, I don't find the long vacancy particularly enjoyable, and I'm hoping to gain some insight and grow from the experience.Has anyone else experienced this, and what did you do to avoid it?

I have enjoyed Stessa's interface but unfortunately it is useless to me if I have constant bank connection issues. 

I individually priced all my materials and got several estimates from contractors.