There are no shortcuts in RE.

This is a key element in your investment plan.

It is pretty much a turn key property that I want to rent out as soon as I can claim ownership of the home.

Here're a few investments suggestions for you to consider.1) stock market - if you're not too familiar, invest in Index Funds2) become a lender - depending on the size of your investment, the rates will vary 3)  invest in syndications - you keep mentioning turn-key (you pay a lot of overhead for these). so I figured syndications maybe an option for you to invest some money passively. if you want to be active, learn it and then partner up with someone experienced to do it yourself.

The key is the security of the investment.

You might want to call the Montana Board of Realty Regulation.

You must likely need to serve forms - available on NYC Housing Rent Board's website - detailing term of lease , percent increase, reason for increase etc. 

The key is finding a value add property where you know the local market and can get easy access to the subject.

Offer cash for keys.

just become a turn key operator.. getting your financing in order buy the homes then resell them. its a huge industry.quite capital intensive to make any money at it though..