If the buyer is losing money on his investment, and walks away without gain, then by definition there is no “equity skimming”.  

You’ll get a better return over the long-term by putting your money in the stock market.

Sometimes occupants still live there and eviction is not easy, and I have even heard a story once that the yakuza are involved in the construction and real estate business and exorted money from buyers through occupants in these properties. 

Anyone can live anywhere they want if they have the money, and sometimes houses are bought and then rented out without much background checking on the people moving in.

Are you collecting properties or collecting money?

I haven't had a full-time employment for a while but I have money saved up to buy a property or two.Is anyone here living abroad also or know anyone living abroad that is not physically buying properties in the USA but abroad?

Here's an ideal PM contract: The two keys are: The PM is incentivized to make you money, not charge high fees, and is contractually bound to provide reporting that you can understand in a timely manner. 

I could get the same or higher overall ROI by putting my money in an index fund which is 100% passive.Deal #2This seems like a good deal to me at the asking price.

You can save a lot on costs if you do many repairs yourself.Look into hard money lenders or private lenders for the initial purchase and rehab.Connect with wholesalers, agents specializing in investment properties, and other BRRRR investors to find deals and learn more.

Hey @Matt Agnew I would get a friend or someone who knows you to lend THEIR IRA money to YOUR IRA.