We have great +750 credit scores, a +6 month emergency fund, money set aside for the down payment (both emergency fund and down payment are cash sitting in a high yield savings and rolling 4 wk treasury) in addition to a taxable brokerage account I have built throughout the years in the event we need to leverage it for a pledge asset line.

Will add it to my calendar and try to be there.

This is a much better deal then on income, especially if you area self employed. 

Additionally, acquaint yourself with New Jersey's security deposit regulations and be prompt in addressing maintenance issues, possibly with the help of a local handyman.

Verify everything on the application especially employment and interview as if the person you are renting to is taking care of your primary residence while you are away. 2.

Especially when investing out-of-state, take into account the time, work, and obligations needed in maintaining the property.Create a Long-Term Investment Plan: Develop a long-term investment plan that outlines your goals, strategies, and timelines for acquiring additional properties.

In addition, focus on the true decentralized side.  

So the only difference I see is that I have to pay an additional origination fee of 1-2 points on hard money.

A few additional things to consider between the two loan types: prepayment penalties, probability of closing, points/ fees.... and vesting (LLC or personal). 

Real estate websites such as Realtor.com, Redfin, and Zillow can give details on recent sales in the area.Use Real Estate Investment Calculators: Take into consideration utilizing additional online real estate investment calculators in addition to the BiggerPockets rental property calculator.