That’s an issue requiring legal research of local law for sure. 

I have scoured this site for advice but nothing specific to my issues popped up.  

You must analyze all the data (size of properties, # of properties of each size, location of best producers, regulations, # building permits for that size issued in the last year)3.

Comparing lenders based on scores is a common practice.

It's a beautiful home (in Rancho Del Oro) and hasn't been vacant a day, but we've had several issues through the years with the plumbing.

50k might not be enough for an investment down here, but for a primary, that shouldn't be an issue.

I've never had any issue or problems with wholesaling or assignments or options or double closes, all of which I've done.  

I have seen these terrible scams they are running now that a lot of people have so much equity in there home but after Covid I’d imagine many people have credit issues but these company pretend like they are giving you access to equity in your home but they are actually buying your home and renting it back to you.

The 1099 is issued to you and the IRS to make sure that you are reporting rental income on your tax return.I would use the annual property management statement to report the income and expenses per property.The property management statement will likely include property management fees charged to you and repairs made on your behalf.

(Search for the Due on Sale clause in a mortgage and you'll see plenty of threads and opinions on that but it is very common practice).I would focus 99% of your time on finding the right area and property, as well as team - agent, Property Manager (@Stephen Glover is a very good start on this one btw), banker, Contractor, etc.