The other options you are playing with fire as using a HELOC that is paying interest is essentially buying with 100% financing.Having no skin in the game has always been a high risk strategy and people were able to get away with it the past few years due to the money supply and inflation but I would not use that as the measuring stick.

I’ve noticed that my confidence grows with every conversation I have with experienced real estate investors, and even more so each time I take a concrete step forward.I'm a strong advocate for personal growth and development, and it's great to see that you also view it as essential to success in investing.

Hello @Michael Dallas,To verify the seller’s information, ensure you request these essential documents:Rent Roll (to confirm rental income and occupancy)Lease Agreements (to review tenant terms)Financial Statements (past 1-2 years, including income and expenses)Property Tax StatementsUtility Bills (if applicable)Maintenance Records and recent CAPEX reportsInsurance Policy DetailsInspection Reports (any recent or previous reports)These will help you confirm the property’s income, expenses, and condition.

It's essentially using multiple novel (but legal) applications of long-standing regs to an activity that largely didn't exist at the time they were created. 

It’s essential to have a protocol in place for these scenarios.

So, the KISS (Keep It Simple Stupid) principle applies.

Since repairs are essential, doing the HVAC and roof as cost-effectively as possible will boost rental value and make refinancing smoother.

Matthew, if you are an accredited investor, there are literally thousands of syndications and crowdfunding deals (which are essentially syndications that are allowed to market over the Internet) available.

The 1% rule is essentially not going to happen in most markets, unless you are in the midwest or more rural/LCOL areas. 

If you're unable to visit the area, video walkthroughs and detailed photo documentation are essential.