If you live there you probably have a good handle on the subtle market dynamics.One significant risk of buying any property out of state is that you have a lot less knowledge and first hand experience with all the nuances of that specific market.

I plugged them into Invelo to find the owner information and have begun sending hand-written letters.

REITs like Realty Income can definitely be a great hands-off option for steady income without the headaches of property management.That said, owning physical real estate has unique benefits like leverage, tax advantages, and control over your asset.

Judges seem to have a lot of time on their hands there.

I flew out there every 3 months hand picking properties from listings.

Are you trying to hand your “friend” a 50% taxable gain that you’re going to keep?

I have seen this in Milwaukee too many times, the only way to make it work is VERY hands-on.If you end up renting it in March for IDK net $200 the property will have lost a LOT more in the next 12 months just in condition vs what it looks like now (assuming that it is freshly painted?

Normally they would mix the concrete by hand. 

They may also require US credit history, although there are a handful that will not require a US credit report for an increased rate/ reduction in LTV. 

Sit on your hands a little longer.