Google search some local site in the areas you're searching too.

We're local and we'll come to you.I remember years ago hearing that in direct mail, there's a 3/10/30 rule. 

If you have extra taxes then you should absolutely account for them.Contact Vrbo, Airbnb and your local authority and see if they are automatically taken out or if you need to submit the extra taxes.

Local vs out of state can mean finding a good PM in both cases or managing the local one themselves.Starter homes are usually good.

Here's a strategy to try.Go to your local library (or their online portal). 

On the Lis Pendens for this house, there is a local real estate broker listed as a defendant alongside the homeowner.

I was hoping a local bank could help but they aren't very good at returning calls apparently to get free money from me haha. 

Since you won't be local- it may be worthwhile to use a property manager.

@Mark Albini Google some of the California projects I'm always seeing on the local news here, you'll see how elaborate they can be, The only ones I'm seeing get done with zoning changes are the ones that have some sort of Non-profit or charitable component.

Thanks Hitanshu - I just financed a 4-Plex and went with a local credit union.