The biggest issue I have had with a tenant in place is the security deposit. 

Caribbean workers don't seem to be very dedicated and think nothing of missing a day of work.Mexico, Central & South America the biggest challenge is finding workers who's perception of their English matches reality. 

My biggest recommendation/piece of advice is not to be overly picky with your first duplex purchase.

The training process is the biggest headache with VAs so it is best you are super organized and detail oriented here to optimize efficiency.

@Brent BlahaYour biggest mistake was letting your in-laws live next door, but this cannot be fixed by amending. :)  Have you ever watched Everybody Loves Raymond?

It is the amount you NEED, not the amount you have.It is advise like this and people getting inspired by this stuff is one of the biggest reasons why so many simply do not make it.You need to step up and use intelligence, not inspirational messages to get crap done!

Biggest advantages investing locally in my opinion are the financing and SoCal appreciation.

That's the biggest concern.

The biggest thing is no appreciation.

Coordinating subs is one of the top two or three biggest tasks that comprises the responsibility, and therefore the fee, of a GC.