I use a lot of different cards based on the best categories on my spending for cash back/miles, but one under the radar for rental investors that gives 5% cash back on up to $2,000 spending per quarter on utilities category when chosen is the US bank cash+ card.I max out on utilities spending with the card every quarter.

How long it takes to be financially ready is different for everyone.

So, if you are paying 3 points with 25% down...that's a lot different than 3 points with 15% down.  

Can you not house hack in different areas around the world?

But I'm always open to using different methods and trying new approaches.  

@Henry HsiehTo provide a different perspective:I am NOT a property manager so I have no skin in this game  But I can tell you, as a GP involved with over 1100 units and $140M AUM, good property management is a big key to successful investment. 

@Kiley Boss, I recommend going a slightly different route.

The only downside is the time difference when its 11am in NYC, its 11pm in Manila. 

Had 3 different tenants in 3 different units purchase homes this year.

The cities you mentioned are all very different markets.