No General Contractor wants to do a remodel with the residents still living there....they will charge you more (they probably will not show it, but the prices will be higher because of the huge PITA factor and increased liability)I would wait until you have completely moved out and then just give them the house empty and ready to roll.....But you can get a Scope Of Work going and start getting bids...even plans and permits if you're going that far...

Hey guys,I'm down in Boquete, Panama for a few days exploring investment opportunities.

(Looking for books, magazines, websites, job opportunities potentially, etc).

If you find a deal with solid cash flow, partnering up might give you more flexibility while still allowing you to control and operate the property.Out-of-State Opportunities: If the local market makes it tough to find larger value-add properties, you could consider diversifying into other markets with lower barriers to entry.

Most investor loans will require a minimum down payment of 15-20% of the sales price with having healthy credit and a few months of reserves. 

Purchase price: $645,000 Cash invested: $32,250 1 bedroom villa is an ideal beach getaway.

I don't see much opportunity here unless you can negotiate with the lender to have them take less on the $155k (do a "short sale").Love any and all thoughts on how you guys would take down these deals. 

Purchase price: $645,000 Cash invested: $32,250 New to the rental program, this charming 1 bedroom villa is an ideal beach getaway.

Even though it’s sold as-is ..bank will not repair anything .. but use the water issue to convince them to reduce the price .

You may want to try hiring a local handyman that you can email jobs to do and speak with 1-2 times weekly, meet 1-2 times monthly.Most will put on a good show for a few months then either get lazy and cut corners or start raising prices.