Not an expert, but I don't really see more difficulty involved.

Some times we have to go through a lot of difficulties to best learn what NOT to do in the future.

If I introduce a contractor he's approaching it from his point of view - what repairs need to be done, what extra ones can I point out so I get more money for the job, and how difficult is it to do?

We are likely to see more of this technology and others that tenants want, so we must be prepared for this.2.

If I were to join and try to build up the business and get into home building possibly how difficult is this to do?

When you have a deal ready for a buyer and it is a good deal, you will not have much difficulty finding buyers.

I've signed up late last year, but had some difficulties.

Hello,I've had my eye on a number of properties into area, and have had some difficulty tracking down the owner.

@Thomas DeMoss (who posted above) definitely works with out of state buyers (he works with us), and is very responsive and great with the technology necessary to work with investors from a distance.  

However, these properties often carry their own set of difficulties, including deferred maintenance, tenancy issues, vacancy, lack of appreciation due to neighborhood, or Section 8 troubles with the local housing authority, so you should be ok with a higher risk investment if you look in these areas.