Both cities have their pros and cons depending what your looking for as an investor but if it's purely prices Edmonton would edge out Calgary. hope this helps Btw Edmonton is 300km north of Calgary

I don't think opening a bank account will be an issue, you can likely open a trust banking account depending on the trust structure (revocable vs. irrevocable). 

Syndications are very specific, if you have any real estate experience, you may be better off doin your own thing. 

I manage some STR/MTR in Oceanside, it depends where it is.

This is a very useful site to help you grow as a real estate investor. 

Given the complexity and potential tax-saving opportunities in real estate, it's wise to consider hiring a CPA with expertise in this field.Many clients who work with non-specialists find that their non-real estate preparers lack the specific knowledge to help them minimize taxes through strategies like depreciation, the de minimis safe harbor, partial asset dispositions, 1031 exchanges, navigating real estate professional status, the short-term rental loophole, and more.If you are looking to qualify as a real estate professional, use the short-term rental strategy, or complete a 1031 exchange, I would without a doubt recommend working with a real estate CPA.

That one also free.I believe first time is free at Robin Carriger's DFW Real Estate meetup group on Saturday mornings in Fort Worth. 

I think this approach depends on the market.

Pick up a copy of the book Lend to Live: Earn Hassle-Free Passive Income in Real Estate with Private Money Lending.

It's best to discuss these options with your lender and possibly a real estate attorney to ensure you make the right decision.