They don't have to fix the toilet, mow the lawn, and if their job moves, they can move too without worry.Second thing, as to the education of economic benefits; well again, that's nationwide, and not just in RE.

Curious what folks out there are doing to get a nation-wide credit and criminal background check these days?

I wasnt aware of the nationwide site.

That's odd; title companies on the west coast give agents/lenders/etc free access, which includes looking up real estate nationwide if it's a nationwide title company. 

The TX Series LLC offers plenty of both and is available to investors nationwide.

I'm also wondering which lenders provide good rates and turn-around times for setting up the HELOC (and should I go local or go with a nationwide lender).

Most national brokerages have an extensive network - nationwide and international - that the average develop/investor can not compare with. 

Most tax pros who work with clients nationwide (myself included) have clients who live, work, and invest in multiple states.As long as you work with someone who is either familiar with multiple state laws/regs or has the capability/resources to research the appropriate laws/regs, it should not be a challenge.Ultimately, you have to be comfortable with your team members and how they work.Happy to answer any other questions you may have!

Which banks in Ohio, or nationwide allows for seller financing of the downpayment?

We do exchanges nationwide.