Purple painted rooms 70’s wood paneled walls and dingy outdated shag carpet are just fine to these folks .

Pick a solid B-Class suburban area.

However, like the others have said make sure you will have solid cash reserves to start off with so you don't get burned with an early expense that you don't have the money for in order to give yourself time build up reserve funds. 

A bank statement for that account is a solid proof of funds.

We've managed hundreds of properties and the 50% rule is a solid rule of thumb.

I've never invested in real estate in other countries but I know real estate in USA is a solid investment that has stood the test of time.Video calls with a friend, partner or agent will help you assess potential properties long distance from Japan.

I am trying to glean as much info as possible to develop a good solid strategy.Thanks for reading!

You are pretty solid on 300,000 property with only 100K in debt.  

My long distance manager is solid as well, although he generally only managers a couple of mostly lower maintenance properties (although one may need a new roof soon).From all the horror stories I have heard I guess I have been pretty lucky with PMs which is really good for me since I'm not the active landlord type.

So with $50k I would start by putting that into a solid 2-4 unit small multi family deal and as your investment grows overtime, gradually work your way up to larger multifamily deals such as a 12-24 unit.