Reality is just a mirror of our internal state of being.The more we invest in ourselves, the more we invest in our lives. :)

But I’m introverted so networking is not my strong suit and work full time so travel to the Midwest to look at a better market is a tough sell internally. 

This is a huge help in internalizing these concepts. 

I have briefly  spoken with a realtor who has been into the international realty business for 18 years.

So, when you have a toilet that won't stop running call a handyman to replace the internals of the toiler instead of a plumber. 5.

They are often classified as operating expenses or maintenance expenses rather than capital improvements (assets).Washer/Dryer/Stove/Refrigerator: These are assets as they are considered durable goods that will benefit the property over an extended period.New Baseboards/Trim, Doors: These are generally considered assets because they enhance the property's value and are not typically replaced frequently.Furnace/AC: These are significant components of the property and are categorized as assets due to their long-term benefit.Paint, Light Fixtures: These can be a bit nuanced.

And lastly, you are only as good as the internal rep you get, don't be afraid to ask for someone better if your rep can hardly fog a mirror.  

They can buy property any way they want, including with cash, but the low interest rate mortgage on their reasonably lightly levered acquisition is an attractive component of the deal.

My company has developed detailed internal procedures for these so, just understand, I'm simplifying the process quite a bit here. 

Like @Ryan Moyer said, there's a lot that internal google departments don't seem to communicate with one another