IMO, if I don't have the capital for the down-payment, it's a red flag to me that I shouldn't be investing, or at least in the property(s) being sought after. 

If they aren't willing to do that, then it's a red flag.2.

That should be a red flag right?

This will be partially an investment, but also because I would personally like to own property by the ocean, possibly as a place to retire or visit later in life.It seems that generally, coastal property appreciates fairly well, but I'd like to know if there are any red flags I should be aware of.

Is this a flag for concern?

I require all serious applicants to do the following:(1) Credit Check(2) Background Check(3) Landlord References(4) Income Verification(5) Employer ReferencesCall them all and be sensitive to any red flags or too many "yellow" flags

If I was feeling more ambitious, it allowed me to stop working and focus 100% of my time on writing a book, or maybe getting healthy if I became too burnt out from the usual non-stop adrenaline and cortisol-fueled American corporate work schedule.

@Mark Perea One year rent up front can be a great deal..............but it is also a huge red flag.

Both of us are surprised it has sat on the market for 30 days but he’s got some connections to call in that town to check on it if we don’t see glaring red flags tomorrow.

I don't do more than two a year unless there are red flags (poorly maintained lawn, regularly paying rent late, etc) that may indicate a problematic renter.