Try to do it in a city that has a 3rd party relative or a friend that is local of the subject property that will help you out and reduce your travel expenses down.I would normally tell you to be honest with the seller except from when you are Wholesaling and assigning the contract. 

These are all questions whose answers will help you chart the way forward ... there is no one size fits all answer.From an operational perspective it is always pleasant to know that your building envelope is relatively efficient (insulated and air sealed); that building systems (electrical, plumbing, HVAC and communications are up-to-date and dependable) and that you have the ability to put accountability for resource consumption in the hands of the tenants.  

I am looking to invest in a residential rental property in Jax and was wondering if anyone has a mortgage broker they recommend or an experience worth sharing in relation to finding the best commercial loan rates? 

Now admittedly I had a small sample size over just a few years but tenant relations are generally much better.I get paid on time every month.If a tenant breaks something, they have to fix it or  lose their section 8.There is a lack of supply it seems so tenants jump on vacancy's and stay put.  

My guess it is related to owner occupied regulations, ability to pay type of thing??

It give me the opportunity to make a low ball offer and maybe buy the property at the right price.I don't know about the timeline your asking about.Although I am originally from Alabama, I won't invest in tax liens there because there are much better states to invest and get properties in a relatively short period of time, at least relative to AL.

one day, but for now am just focused on creating as large a nest egg as possible.I found Bigger Pockets through the podcast (I think looking for investment related podcasts), and that led me to the site.

We are looking at living “small” relative to the area, and our income.  

(See Property Management Companies under RI DBR's Commercial Licensing Regulation 11: Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons)If they can't tell you that, then I would not do business with them because they would have demonstrated their lack of understanding RI law relating to property management, right off the bat.Also @Chandler Roman's having found that their website is a "squeeze page" whose purpose is to collect information is another not great sign.

Do your due diligence and work your numbers using your best data, not theirs.Hope this helps.