Among them:-Regional cost of living-Firm overhead-Knowledge level-Proprietary resources and strategy-Timeliness of communication-Ability to executeA better question is: "Do you think the CPA is charging too much for the value he/she is going to provide" which we won't be able to answer.That said, I would think a $500 compliance fee for three income tax returns (federal, state, and local), placing a rental RE asset in service, and doing a proration of expenses is on the low-middle end of the spectrum.

Even if it had become a bill, my understanding is that it will stop existing multi families and will not stop the new 2-family condos that are being built (like the ones in JC Heights)

That's not legal advice as I'm not a lawyer, but I think the situation is pretty clear cut.The issue I see is that your friends have already incurred these expenses without giving the landlord the ability to mitigate his losses, nor did they get approval for any of the costs beforehand.

Soon enough as Brian suggested you can convert it into truly self-directed Solo 401k and have the ability to invest in alternative assets. 

It is very possible to find them but will take effort and the ability to identify and jump on deals quickly.So I think it is a great idea to invest out of state, in the areas that you mentioned.

For example, 2018 water - Flat rate of $709.60Excess usage charge of $1,040.76 Total of $1,750.362018 Sewer -Flat rate of $272Excess usage charge of $4,367.20Total of $4,639.20Anyone have any experience with something similar, or the ability to point me in the right direction?

There are numerous factors that will affect your ability to finance real estate in the US, such as the restrictions of your home country, immigration status, your personal financial history, etc. 

However if the clog was found in the main of a particular unit before it joints the main to the street. then by all means approach that tenant with a bill, Hopefully you took some pics of the stuff that you took out so you can prove your case.

Also let it drop that they won't be getting a good recommendation from you in the future which will impact their ability to find a suitable rental going forward.

Did BP take away the ability to tag other members in posts for non-pro members?