I am investing out of Baltimore and focusing on fix N flip so I can't speak to much to rentals but I know Baltimore you do have to be careful because each area is different. 

As long as you have $20, you can get started. https://www.dirtcheapsigns.com/Custom-blank-yellow...As for the burner phone, get a Google Voice number.https://www.wikihow.com/Get-a-Google-Voice-Phone-N...As for what you 'ask', offering them something of value instead.

If you also invest in Texas - your credit profile shouldn't be too bad for someone to follow even if they don't live n Texas.

In addition, if anyone is local to N.

I would also suggest that you attend local meetups in both Sacramento and Bay Area. http://norcalreia.com, https://www.meetup.com/N-California-Real-Estate-In...Some great ones in San Francisco, Milpitas and San Jose.

Here's a few that are centrally located and may be a good fit for you:4008 N 20th St,Phoenix, AZ 85016322 N 13th Pl, Phoenix, AZ 850063115 E Glenrosa Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85016Let me know your thoughts and I'll try to point you in the right direction :-)

(Google 1912 N Burling)My team listed the most expensive listing in the city back in 2013.

Kamalani in N Kihei is an awesome entry-level condo opportunity starting in the $400s, a solid buy in location accessible to both S and W Maui that will surely appreciate.There's a wealth of information here on BP, welcome!

And the TIME to be in "buy- n- hold" is AFTER the next (staged) 'market correction,' vs. the current 'seller's market.' ;-)

I am doing a fix n flip with a another partner now.