There are landlords who are proud to own properties while offering their communities a nice and safe place to live (and enjoying the benefits of having someone else pay for your appreciating asset).

It will be easy for you to check if they paid on time, as you can check instantly online.  

Quote from @Zach Howard: Quote from @Jonathan Greene: If you are looking at properties in the US only on Zillow, and not seeing them in person (I know you are in Hong Kong), this is just an effort in futility because you can't underwrite single-family or small multifamily deals only online.

The "Initial Filing" is extremely important to get this right the 1st time as there are limited safe harbors for mistakes to avoid the penalties.

I also recommend a bank that has local branch that you can go into vs having it 100% online.

Since my son knew how to do it safely with ropes and harnesses he made like $3,000 in 2 days! 

Unfortunately, while all the online places area great sources of information, you are much less likely to take action, or find someone to shadow, when online in a forum. 

Propelio is especially popular in Texas, so if you're investing in areas like Dallas, Fort Worth, Plano, or Frisco, it’s worth exploring.Public Property Records: County appraisal districts (CADs) often have free online tools to search properties by owner name or address.

Since the last time I was online, I have grown the investing to fix and flipping and a portfolio of 4 properties that are producing passive income.  

I know this is a differing topic on the forums, and online in general, but having the legal background/education and knowing estate planning concepts you'll realize it shouldn't be.