It’s better to get to know a market really well—understanding the neighborhoods, trends, and key players—than to spread yourself too thin.

Finding the right GC, broker/real estate agent, and property manager is key in most deals. 

I think it gives great insight into turn key rentals. 

Two other key aspects that worry me about Japan are (1) generally depreciating values of real estate and (2) generally decreasing rents. 

Key points include:Security Deposits: In Indiana, there’s no legal cap on security deposits, but you must return the deposit (minus any valid deductions) within 45 days of the tenant vacating the property.Evictions: Follow the formal process carefully.

This is a key difference from traditional buyer agency, where the agent keeps this commission.3.

Quote from @Tannia Castro: I would say the key would be to narrow in on an area (this could be a city if you are not from that area and investing remotely), or this could be a part of the city (some local streets) if it is in your backyard.

And what is your price point and are you looking for turn-key properties or something along the lines of a "fixer upper"?

IMHO the key is having an agent on the buy side who understands the process and can make some magic happen for you. 

I think the key to getting a good start in REI is finding a way to have a high 9 to 5 income and using a good portion of it  invest in your real estate endeavors.