My suggestions:* Requiring code compliance and safety equipment is absolutely valid and should be part of the regulations* Requiring owners live within 15 miles is not necessary since poor hosts whether they're local or distant will violate the 3-5 warning system and earn a suspension.

We have a local competitor that brags they don't charge a maintenance markup, yet we know:1) They charge owners $60/hour for their handyman2) How much do you think they're paying their handyman? 

Not sure which markets you're considering, but if you set your sights on the coast I can help with local lenders, attorneys, tax pros, etc. 

In one case they used a notary at the local US consulate.

I figured the PM would definitely be local to the area of the property and would need different PM's for each area, those were just the areas I'd like to invest in. 

Tacoma is a fantastic market with a lot of opportunity, so you’re starting in the right place.Here’s how you can connect with local experts and start building your skills:Attend local meetups and networking events.

It was just an offer (costs extra) through a local lender I used!

Find them at local real estate meetups, but be careful, it's a sketchy business overall.

A key part of our team is our talented interior designer, who helps us add that extra flair to every property we touch.We’re eager to connect with local investors, agents, lenders, contractors, and anyone else who shares our passion for real estate.

It is just like law firms from NYC have a full team vs local independent lawyers have a one-man army or a very small team.