This would be especially important when investing in a smaller town.Those three items are probably the first things I’d look into when assessing a new market. 

It's very important to stay in contact with the Bank, Title, Insurance during this phase and make sure everyone is on the same page and has each others contact info.

I actually upgraded to Pro membership primarily to be able to ask this one question in the Pro forum -- that's how important it is to me!

In your particular case, it will boil down to a few things: who you invest with in the US (most important), solid cross-border CPA and investment strategy. 

I think getting it down to atleast 30k is far more important BEFORE I even think about REI. 

@Michael ClayWorking with your attorney you will most likely need the following:1) Loan Agreement2) Promissory note (if lending to a LLC)3) Personal Guarantee (if you require one)4) Mortgage / Deed of Trust (depending on local laws)One important point is to ensure the property has a clear title (title company will do this, but ensure you have proof before wiring money).

Those last two are the most important thing.

You'll never get the money but at least you get rid of him.This is why it's important to inspect every unit before purchase (including physical inspection, payment history, lease terms, etc.) and why you should have a reserve.

Tag me if you have any specific questions but here's some quick bullet points on the program:Other Important Items to Know about “Conventional” Renovation LoansMaximum – Minimum Purchase/Upgrade Amounts:Minimum: $5,000 (below this on an exception basis only)Maximum: Limited to 50% of the “after improved” valueOccupancy: Primary, Second Homes, Investment PropertiesRenovation Term: The renovation term for this program is a maximum of 180 days.The Borrower(s) is responsible for the work being completed within the escrow period.

The upsides is that your property is professionally cleaned after every checkout, upkeep is super important as this is a business for him and broken or damaged listings don’t do well at all.