I put my money where my mouth is and I am also buying properties in localities where I am selling to my investor clients. 

The solution could be a creative financing solution such as a total or partial private note, an assumption of the note or LLC, a speciality or local lender, or any combination thereof. 

I have been trying to get a distressed/value add LTR property under contract in my local market for some time now.

I’ve got multiple properties in several areas all of which are still fairly local which means if something happens in one community I’ve got locations elsewhere to help compensate.

It’s still rough and has plenty of room for improvement, but I can upload photos of a distressed property, tax records, comps, lender rates, and local rehab costs.From there, it analyzes the photos to identify repairs, explains why they’re needed, estimates costs for each item, calculates the total rehab budget, determines ARV based on comps, and provides an expected return—basically automating a lot of what spreadsheets already do.It’s not meant to replace an analyst, and of course, everything still needs to be verified.

Any groups/meetups that i could attend in the local Houston area?

Your local MLS already have this data and send a monthly update to all their member.

Also, about seeing a property in person:  I have found local real estate agents, who are willing to go out and take photos and email to you, for a modest fee.

@Tobias JonesesYeah, I don't know California, so talk to a local STR-friendly agent.

You can purchase them through a local dealer that has a good track record in the community.At this time our cleaners take care of the hot tub, but I will say if you have a certified hot tub company that can come weekly, I would definitely go that route!