Everyone had 20 minutes alotted to their individual situation and bounce ideas/get advice from the group. 

If you looked at the individual properties, obviously the one cashflowed great and the other two were negative. 

And bad credit usually equates to a tighter financial situation, so taking on a higher-interest rate loan is a risk for someone like you. 

Take a look at each room individually, mentioning both the structural and aesthetic elements.

I'm exploring financial options in Japan, but if it's not too much trouble, I'd also like to hear more details about why it's less than likely, if not even impossible, to create a fund or receiving investments to purchase oversea properties.

I would just recommend only partnering with people that you really trust and make sure that you have legal documents clearly explaining everyone's role, expectations, and contributions (both financial and work wise). 

Consider if creating an LLC is worth the expenses incurred, particularly if you are just starting out with investments.Think about your long-term financial objectives.

What subject to invokes is entrepreneurial risk; the thing all real estate investors live with in an attempt to grow our assets, and gain a financial “free” lifestyle.  

@Lisa GoodingI recommend finding a tax strategist that specializes in real estate taxation and is also a fee-only financial planner.

BP is an excellent resource for learning about real estate investing and connecting with like-minded individuals.