Let's say 10 years in, you get deployed to <insert random combat theater where you have no internet access and limited phone access at best> and you have 30 properties at this point spread across the country.

I think with the internet, one *could* self-manage properties long distance, or find a reputable property manager.  

And then I would just do an internet search on an area you are interested in; for example Tampa.

What service would you recommend to run your credit/background checks? 

@Zachary Miller individual investors are now able to use a service like Show Mojo or Tenant Turner that can help you with the leasing process, scheduling, and marketing out to the 20-30 sites you want to me on.

Storing information on External hard drives or USB sticks can also be unsafe..I agree with a lot of what you said Nancy but storing your information on your desktop rather than the "Cloud" is not necessary "safer", it might be a false sense of security..It is important when using Quickbooks online, iCloud or any Cloud type service that the user is following best practices.

Painting Serviceable Cabinets as opposed to New Cabinets. 5.

Point #1 - foreigners can't own property - unless you're married to a nationalPoint #2 - you can own a condo - without being married to a nationalPoint #3 - you can Airbnb your condoPoint #4 - condos start around $38,000 upwards to $190K.I've toyed with the idea of offering a service to foreign investors as an American "with boots on the ground" to make sure their investment is properly setup. 

With the mortgage insurance added to the debt service, I do wonder how the math works. 

Both providing a service for others.