I hope you get the chance to visit someday; I’m sure you’ll love it!

Agree Google nmls - funny on Facebook where 99% of private lending groups that are public are scam artists you get the "well license isn't required"I reply to this noting that while you are correct in some states - chances of a scammer with a nmls license are less than 1% while those without is 99% on sociale media 

Getting an LLC in place from the start can provide peace of mind and give you a chance to familiarize yourself with the process before expanding your portfolio.

With @Michael Baum on this.Another angle of thought - who would have a better chance of success challenging Airbnb TOS:1) A "brand" with 5 units2) A brand with 500 units?

There's a good chance the issue(s) you face has already been discussed and answered.Ask questions in the appropriate forum.

Most investors make the same rookie mistake: They focus on problems instead of people.
Telling sellers everything wrong with their house and justifying your offer with repair costs doesn’t build trust—it kills it.
...

It likely would require something grossly negligent with huge consequences to have a chance to go beyond my coverage and we are not that negligent. 

We're willing to live almost anywhere in the greater Sacramento area based on what we can afford, provided of course that the property is in a decent neighborhood that has a good chance of attracting responsible tenants.As for budget, I believe we could get a conventional loan for properties up to $600k, but my strong preference is to find a distressed property (or seller!)

If you invest in RE, whether active or passive(management team, syndications, crowdfunding), I'd love the chance to quickly explain the structure and hear your thoughts on what might need to be improved.

Appraisals, Lenders and Rates : Beyond the transactions that were literally in process (sales, listings, leases, seller carries) are properties that remain amongst vacant lots.