There are some pretty nice discounts on many products and services offered as Perks to BP members that you might want to check out: https://www.biggerpockets.com/perks/proI really like the alerts feature that can quickly guide you to current topics that may be of interest: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alerts

The final test is maximally productive. 

You could always look into some foreign national products for the States @Adrian York

Or alternatively your agent can connect you with a lender that offers a special product like a rehab loan (not all do) or is better with underwriting self employed individuals.

HOWEVER, the way this loan product is setup is that both loans (construction and permanent loan) are closed on the front end meaning I sign all closing documents.

Personally, I like to provide a high quality product in a nice neighborhood and subsequently, I intentionally have a strong rental criteria 700+ credit etc so I can weed out the tenants I do not see being a good fit.In regards to best practices, I usually do everything via facebook messenger, text and email but I will probably utilize a google web form moving forward.

I know from reading David Greene's book on long distance real estate investing that finding the right agent can be a great start. 

For example with an investment based Realtor, property manager, and contractor you should be able to seamlessly invest in property, and you get the added value of making sure that your product is still holding to a quality standard along with being able to see your property and replace team members more easily as well if need be.  

I see the host as co authored a book with Jeff Greene-a major Palm Beach Developer.

(everyone I have talking 70ltv on a 30 year fixed conventional product with rates about 4.25 paying points.