I also have two buy-and-hold rental properties and am passionate about exploring unique financing opportunities.Recently, I used a VA loan assumption to purchase an investment property at a 3.3% interest rate, which was instantly cash flow positive. 

STRs have unique tax considerations, so setting up the right systems early will save you headaches down the road!

Simultaneously improve our process and communication systems. 4.

Living and working overseas can present unique challenges when it comes to securing financing, but there are definitely loan options designed for situations like yours.

You must work at least 750 hours per year in a qualified RE business.So most people who have high-earning W-2 jobs outside of real estate wouldn't qualify.But the unique thing about RE pro status is that even if you don’t qualify but your spouse does, you can both file jointly and claim the losses from your RE investments to offset your other active income together.

Since you plan to travel often, focusing on systems and building a reliable team: agent, lender, property manager, and contractor. 

You can argue I need a property management company and that I’m too lenient but this system is working for me.

What do you recommend for hot water leak alert system?   

I would argue that they are young so they haven't been burned by bad landlords or even know how to take advantage of the system.

The downside is that everyone does it and unless you have something quite unique, you will deal with lots of competition and seasonality.