If you can't keep control of your personal finances, you are highly unlikely to succeed in real estate investing.

I have to do a little more due diligence before I feel comfortable with sending them any of my personal info.

In order to undertake a new build I would have to personally know the builder and be comfortable with his work.

I always advise potential buyers to carefully evaluate the specific HOA's fees, services, and management practices while performing their due diligence. 

Personally, I prioritize land lord friendly states because this significantly reduces risks.

If you have cash, know that 99% of wholesalers will have low repair values and high ARVs that don't match the actual data or upkeep of the house.Also, ask if this is being daisy-chained, meaning are there other wholesalers or investors in the line between the person offering you the deal and the seller.

I personally would approach this with a self assessment.

like - your own market. or a market a couple hours away that you can spend some time in person in. or where you went to college. or where you like to vacation.

I am not a market-timer, and a time in market person so just for folks calling that out that is with this considered.

Local and state laws are changing on the daily so I think that the right Property Manager really helps with that but hiring a PM or self managing is always a personal call.