Step 1— Read everything here that is relevant to your situation https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/property-managementStep 2 — List your property on Zillow, Apartments.com and Facebook Marketplace — that will give you exposure to 80%+ of the rental market Step 3 — Keep taking action on the scary things—they're not as scary as you thinkGood luck!

I'm wondering if it would make sense to source modular homes in China and have them shipped to and assembled in markets like Memphis, Atlanta, Birmingham, and other where you can buy vacant lots with utilities for as little as a few thousand dollars.

To list on the MLS, you will need a POA signed by the seller, which states that you can sign on behalf of the owner for listing documents and offers, as well as a signed purchase and sale agreement with an assignability and marketing clause."

Sure as hell beats paying $40k to an actor fronting for a real estate marketing company operating out of Las Vegas or Salt Lake City and providing guidance by a failed salesman reading answers from a script.  

Others have found markets they like more.

Future sale price is set, regardless of market.

I’m thinking rental but market is rough in Florida.

Yes, it would be good if the seller communicated any issues earlier because then they could be handled/negotiated earlier if needed, but for the buyer there should be no risk to their EMD at least the way we would typically write a contract in my market. 

On the other hand, welcome to the housing market in 2024!

Hello, I am new to real estate investing and I have a tentative verbal deal on a pre-market lake property that I would eventually like to make my retirement home (10 years or so).