I'm not trying to get political but the biggest requirement is that it is in a state that is predominately Republican.

Her voucher is still frozen (at least it better be as she owes me money and The Housing Authority is aware of this).So to say Section 8 is guaranteed money and Section 8 tenants are afraid of losing their vouchers may be true in a lot of cases, but certainly not all.Though my biggest annoyance was with the Section 8 Housing Authority; they were inept.

Would prefer something where the incentives are more aligned and tied to long term success of the deal.Where do you typically come in contact with out of state sponsors and investors?

If your biggest issue is that someone keeps throwing dryer sheets on the floor of the laundry room, then you're probably over-thinking it.

I think the biggest way you can help other investors is bringing your experience.

The biggest issue most agents have is that they don't think through when clients are available.

It's a hot young professional town, so I'm not worried about a ton of damage each turnover.I'm reading Brandon Turner's 'How to Manage Rentals' book and read something interesting.... he described the security deposit as an "incentive to maintain the property".

@Susan Maneck - Yes, eliminating your rent can be a huge form of "yield", living in your property gives you huge tax incentives upon sale and in New York you would rather avoid anything over 4 units due to rent control and rent stabilization complexities as a newbie investor.

What were your BIGGEST OBSTACLES? 

My biggest fear is the appraisal coming back low because the property looks pretty rough at the moment as work hasn't started.