It doesn't happen often, but there are times when the data providers screw up a variable and suddenly they think your place is built with imported Italian marble and golden fixtures.Nonetheless, I appreciate the feedback.

Real estate investing often demands reserves for unforeseen expenses.

Second question is, if we don't live in the city we will invest in, we understand we will have to be traveling often, but who could be a good person to check in on the construction so we don't have to go every week?

@Adam OrtizRecommend you first figure out the property Class you want to invest in, THEN figure out the corresponding location to invest in.Property Class will typically dictate the Class of tenant you get, which greatly IMPACTS rental income stability and property maintenance/damage by tenants.If you apply Class A assumptions to a Class B or C purchase, your expectations won’t be met and it may be a financial disaster.If you buy/renovate a property in Class D area to Class A standards, what quality of tenant will you get?

The funny thing though is while many new investors do not see the value of such services, seasoned investors often see the worth.

For your first long-term rental, it’s often better to start in an area you’re familiar with.

It also matters where the home is located, and what the weather, type of tenants it attracts/has been attracting, etc. other factors are.

So you're a new user as of ten days ago, 74 posts in 10 days and 3 of those are pro DealMachine?

Folks very often dont  realize the cost of being self employed when every facet of your life comes out of your pocket.

I have often stated there are two ways to make money in Real Estate....The California method and the Texas method (I certainly understand there are many more ways to look at investing but I am OVER simplifying).