Depending on your locale, its pretty easy to check local newspaper classifieds, and online sources such as Craigslist which are excellent in many markets.

I used to live and work in Silicon Valley (my degree is in computer science) so I know a bit about CA also.The biggest thing to consider is are you trying to build a RE portfolio in the US or just buying and then selling.

One of the biggest problems is selective enforcement of ccr's.

My biggest problem is not having enough deals.

It is a paid education while you build other sources of income.

Where are some good sources of information to lookup Oceanfront Property Values for the past 10 and 5 years.Especially CA, FL, East Coast and Texas?

I am looking to buy investment properties in WNY and finding it hard as a non resident alien to source a mortgage for several reasons:1 The amount I want to borrow at any one time is only around $30K-$50K - ie to a lender, not really enough to justify the extra exposure to a foreigner.2.

Could likely rent for a couple hundred more, based on rentometer.com info.Home has very nice tile and wood flooring, 4 yrs new, could use some small touches inside and will look much better with landscaping outside, needs some curb appeal.My biggest problem here is: WHAT in the world to do with this property??

The biggest thing is to partner up with a (yes a) realtor that understands what you are looking for and will work with you.

Commercial loan options that require less then 20-25% exist in bounty---97/95/90 LTV/CLTV commercial financing is available from a number of sources varying on property type, occupancy and other factors not mentioned.Unlike residential loans, legal entities don't get the bad rap with commercial lenders---the same estimates I provided above would apply.