In every case, I've spent time researching, pulling comps, visiting properties, getting contractor bids etc., and so far when it has been time for them to follow through on their end they are suddenly hard to get in contact with.  

Should I be pulling permits or information from the town hall or something?!

Also, if you have access to MLS or an agent that can pull some for you, rentals (closed) are a great way to evaluate market values of yours.

I have traveled abroad quite a bit but I have never pulled the trigger on foreign investment. 

If you can pull this off with no cash out of pocket after financing you have 40k in equity, a tenant paying the mortgage, and hopefully the prospect of appreciation.

Is it ONLY so they can pull out their Certificate when the Ethics Board comes calling?

Hey John,I would suggest visiting an area first before pulling the trigger, especially since your are just starting out.

I am not really familiar with eviction process having only had to do 1, so I don't know all the legal loophole, but I imagine in a purchase there are several a tenant could pull on.  

Have him/her pull your credit and see what it looks like.

Hi-Hopefully I'm stating this correctly:HELOC -> has closing costs and is the equity being pulled out of the house up to a % of what the lender will lend on the property (ie 60% or 75% LTV).