If applicants don't meet these criteria, then we would typically allow them to use a US-based guarantor with an income of at least 80x the monthly rent.One more thing- Don't make exceptions based on personal stories!

You definitely came to the right place to connect with like-minded individuals who are well versed in the space.

When evaluating such deals, when does it make sense to purchase a property that can be fixed and refinanced to maintain ownership, while also allowing for the construction of a duplex on the additional lot, thus maximizing the return on investment for both the lot and the property?

These listings come from licensed Realtors or property managers, allowing you to check their credentials online.

Allow them to ask you to help.

If you decide to keep the home, you could refinance (and lose the 3.5% rate) or get a second position loan - this would allow you to access the equity without affecting your existing mortgage.

Indeed, it's not uncommon for such companies to sell slightly over market (whether selling individual properties or syndications or crowdfunded deals). 

If you are talking about flips, then you need to make allowance for unfavorable changes in market direction and buyer's appetite.

Its going to be managed by a property manager and thus a passive investment which is allowed per h1b rules.However, I am being needed to procure state and county hotel tax certificates which almost seems like I am launching a hotel business in the records of state.I am starting to wonder if this can cause issues down the lane when renewing my visa or applying for green card.If anyone else has a similar experience or own STRs on h1b, urgently want to discuss this with you.

If allowed, they should provide you something in writing and then you can share that with the post office so they can deliver mail to the second location.