@Brandon Croucier is giving you solid info on finding an experienced and honest mortgage broker who can shop your exact scenario both ways, with the rehab and without and break down the benefits of each with all fees so you can see an apples to apples comparison. 

I see big price range with these (from $200 to over $4k) and wanted to know if you can get a decent one without breaking the bank.

You can buy a set of five for under $300, subscription for the recording software is $10 a month, then the cost of WiFi or hotspot.If you've already had a couple break-ins, you are obviously in a high-crime area.

also look at the tongues, some are very thin and break easily. 

Once I plug in all those numbers, I'm pretty close to breaking even.

Quote from @Mary Chries: That is a great news.

They offer invaluable insights into neighborhoods, regulations, tenant demographics, and market conditions—information you can't get from books or podcasts.The good news is that working with an investment team typically comes at no extra cost.

https://www.propertyguides.com/spain/news/british-investors-...Great place to visit, great place to live, great place to holiday.  

Just google the following: - special assessment - zombie condos - Florida condos (look for recent news)Since you are not living near the properties anyways, why not look in a landlord friendly state where the purchase prices are lower?

Does anyone have some creative ideas on how I can break into the market?