But, again, if you love that exterior DIY stuff then not so much..Also, if you have any specific questions, just quote or mention me  and I can come back and fill in (I don't know much about massive conversions or building or developing new ones, just owned and rented a few and been on 3 boards).....

It's also much easier to find partners, joint ventures, and lenders using creative financing if your deal analysis abilities are solid.

It might be better to joint venture with an experienced builder to get rebuilt sooner in exchange for giving them a cut of monthly rents or some other deal.

Is anybody familiar with what the rules are/certifications required, at least on the federal level, for what I need to do as an investor/ DIY-er? 

We are both veterans and this will be our first venture together.

If you are looking for DIY I would recommend vinyl floors or tile, but hardwood is not a DIY project for beginners, neither is installing cabinets or appliances, so it would depend on your level of experience.  

@Olivia DansereauI commend you for building a retirement plan for your daughter, but trying to have it joint-venture with your Solo 401(k) will be problematic at best and create a prohibited transaction at worst.Your daughter is a disqualified party to your plan and visa-versa.  

@Juan Reyes - I'm still currently open to finding financing for my ventures so if you're open to working with a new investor I would happily send my business to fellow BP members.

If that is not of concern DIY. 1 month rent as commission for a residential property is standard, exclusive agency is also standard for most agents especially if they are good at what they do.

However, due to a lengthy and more careful process, Chinese regulations are expected to take longer with more restrictions therefore slowing the outflow of future investments into foreign ventures.