We are actually going to visit a few properties next week. 

I get messages all the time from investors in Atlanta asking if they can visit a property I'm working on, ask me questions, etc., so I know there are a lot of you out there who could benefit.

Yes the front loaded fee are important, but divided by the duration of the life insurance they are very low, often lower than most low cost mutual funds.Why are you not also talking about the 6% commission that real estate agents are making for a one time sale for just driving you to visit a house?

San Diego January Meetup - Visit a Deal - Cash Flow BRRR Dealhttp://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/521/topics/260...

The following meetup lets it's members visit a finished flip every month.

Try emailing someone on the site to see who's active in your area or visit a meeting in Charleston. 

if you're willing to invest the time, you could go to REIA meetings, build a team, meet contractors and agents, visit as many properties as you want.but as others have said this... is the total and complete opposite of passive.if you want something truly passive then it's not owning and managing individual properties. 

Many will say rehabbing off market properties is the way to go but I think this is a perfectly okay route for a new out of state investor to start off with.Also connecting with a local real estate agent who is willing share their insight and even visit a prospective property is indispensable.

I originally intended to visit a nearby self storage unit to see what type of lease agreement and terms they utilized. 

This will allow you to attend REIA meetings in person; meet your Core 4 in person; easily visit as many properties as you like in person; etc.