They will also help you identify how and when to transition from simpler (i.e. in your own name) ownership structures to more involved (holding company(ies)) with minimal tax implications.Is a corporation the type of company that makes the most sense?

It's not easy to identify being out of state so I would recommend doing what I did and come out here and drive every part of this largest city in america to get to know for yourself what is doable for your investing strategy.  

.* Having identified a local portfolio lender, investor (LLC) will be able to refi up to 70% LTV but must hold property for a minimum of 2 yrs.

Many I would consider c class assets that I personally would not buy and hold myself.the business model I like much better is to identify an emerging real estate market, buy distressed, fix up, and add them to your personal rental portfolio.Originally posted by @Larry K.

For all you MF owners out there, here's a quick tip I learned today from a veteran PM:Have your maint. guy (or yourself if you're the maint. guy) write down the water meter reading twice a week and track it over time.This will allow you to identify a hidden leak fast and get in-front of it before it gets too bad.For example If the week over week consumption jumps 50% on day and nothing special should have caused it then you need to start looking into it. 

No requests yet of my bank, paypal, etc. information, but they insist on the urgency of their situation.Anything here looking like a pattern to avoid?

Because of this, they also need to have an identified custodian for the self-directed IRA named in the account disclosure documents.

Would I be able to draw upon my experience to identify red flags?  

One of the properties I had identified based on the numbers here in Memphis was so bad I did not even dare to get put of the car; and I have a very high tolerance for sketchy properties.The other value in touring before you buy is that you can meet the property manager.  

Marge, I read an article somewhere from a successful entepeneur that we are all given three major business opportunities / or career changes in our life time and it is our job to identify what they are or capture that opportunity.