The biggest problem was water damage from a busted pipe and water damage to the added porch.

No the lender does not have to physically be in the same state you are investing but they must be licensed/qualified to lend in that state. 

Not to understate the seriousness of those who have died, especially since it isn't over yet, but everything I am explaining is a nationwide reaction, while 95% of the deaths have occurred in only one district and still far less damage than the normal influenza virus.   

What are the physical differences between the two?

The town has a decent amount of inventory where I know deals could be made, however I can not be there to physically look at all of them.

"John, don't forget that I'll need pictures of the floor damage before you start working and then some pictures of the finished project.

I am trying to get my brother-in-law to buy a house hack and the one thing I keep telling him is that, although the physical cash flow isn't exciting...add in the monthly payment that you do not have to come up with....NOW its exciting. 

I don't expect you to clean it on your way out the door but I do expect you to be respectful and not damage anything.

Make the listing/ad about the rental itself and its physical location, not the "who" of the place.

Have you physically inspected the property yet?