I'd talk to a Qualified Intermediary before you make a plan.It looks like the government may pass 100% Bonus Depreciation. 

More government regulation…

It spells out the monthly rent,when it’s due, the length of the lease (or term), should contain clauses required by the federal and state governments, andmuch more.

HOA's yes, fairly common they have such, not a governance as a whole. 

For example, there is a 2% or so transfer tax to be paid to the municipal and state governments.

For me I think Belize is a safer place with a more stable government than Panama....but I have not done a whole lot of research.

From my research so far and conversations with a couple property managers it sounds like there is more upside on the STR/MTR side of things however it doesn't seem like Denver's government is very friendly to the STR/MTR option. 

You are talking about government and using the word " Normal"  ?   

Our approach for implementation is to break all repairs into 4 categories by priority:1) Health & Safety - most important as could result in tenant lawsuit2) Property Preservation & Government Requirements - don't ignore a roof leak that costs hundreds to fix now, but will costs thousands in the future.

Your doing work is governed by your contract with the seller, which obligates you to put his interest above your own.The seller's broker will never have to do the buyer's work.