Additionally, I am looking for an internship for this semester so if there are any mortgage lenders or developers near the Boston area or another city (remote) that are looking for an intern please message me and I will be excited to talk with you! 

It is more profitable than parking funds in banks, buying cars or electronic gadgets, as real estate value increases exponentially compared to bank interest.

Some lenders will do HELOCs with no interior appraisal, which can save your bacon if the house is still under internal repairs. 

Background:  I work primarily on ships for a living so I'm gone in international waters for 6-10 months out of the year.  

Returns also depend on the area and the ability of the sponsor to either manage the property well or hire and manage a property management company that can capitalize on all up-side potential.Typically, investors expect the average Cash on Cash Return (COC) to be around 6% to 8% and the Internal Rate of Return (IRR) in the 15% to 20% range, depending on the perceived risk of the business plan.

No experience internationally but I am a big believer in the concept that all real estate being local.

It is an internship that allows active duty members to intern with a company for up to 6 months before your EAS. 

He's a REI specailized CPA who also has an international / REI CPA on staff as well. 

Either require electronic payment or a mailed check on or before the first and institute a late fee (i would start this with current tenants now)..

They will also have a ton of internal data on helping you analyze micro markets, returns by neighborhood, etc...