Educate yourself on the local market, network with other investors and agents, and always have a solid plan in place before making any investments.

Twelve month interest only commercial loan at a local bank.

@Rehaan Khan you should hook up with a local expert to learn from.

Are you planning to invest locally in California, or are you open to investing out-of-state?

In PR, understand the locals disposition to OOS investors, even those fluent in Spanish like yourself (or so I gather from Spanish language interview questions).No harm in beginning the interview process with both lender and agent today.

Assessing the time commitment and associated costs will help you make an informed decision.Market Conditions: Are you confident in the stability and growth potential of the local real estate market?

It's got a village like feel with locally owned shops and eateries.

Anyone have recommendations on local lenders in Philadelphia for a LTR in the city?  

If it's a family style single family home or multifamily unit, unfurnished, in non-core areas, the timing doesn't really matter as most likely your tenants a re locals who can relocate at any time regardless of the season. 

Consider building a network of local contractors and service providers who can assist with property maintenance.