I have experienced poor and dishonest contractors though.

At least, not right now until i'm more experienced.

My business partner and I are experienced investors in Southwestern Ontario Canada, but are possibly looking to branch out to Michigan, US.

He may offer suggestions on ways to make the deal work if it is not workable as you have it structured as well.So, newer folks can get more value than just the money and the more experienced can get the money easier than private and cheaper than hard.

To be active in BP forums and hopefully to link up with some experienced local property investors in Melbourne and to learn from their experience in our local market.3.

My question to more experienced investors is, given all that, is it worth looking into buying a place strictly as an investment (either locally or long-distance)?

I will only work with a reputable, experienced Fee-Only advisor.

@Leslie Eason, talk to other experienced investors around you. if you do a conventional mortgage, you will need 25%-30% down and also want to have reserves for the repairs that always pop up at inconvenient times. 

She also is an experienced house flipper and home remodeler with a keen eye for design.

What kind of returns were you experiencing with RealtyShares?