Obtain a working knowledge of the local rental market. 

My thought is to help him out by going in 50-50 partnership for many reasons: half down payment, half capex expense, strong co-signer on loan, me being local to investment property to take care of little things that need attentions (he will be out of state for his job/I will have PM), etc.  1. 

Would you be looking locally in South Florida? 

I know more about Phoenix living locally but I hear good things about NC especially from east coast investors.

Hi does anyone have experience with providing direct STR stays (so not through Airbnb or VRBO) and charging, collecting, and remitting the local Chicago hotel tax?

Have you considered dropping by one of your local REIA meetings to see what lenders your peers are using?

Is your financial advisor local?

My guests also booked last minute and were locals...

Since hard money eats into profits, consider private lenders, local banks, or partnerships for lower-cost funding.

Hey Ricky,I don't invest in Ontario so I can't comment on the specific local markets BUT, there will not be a lot of opportunities to buy distressed properties in Canada.