I've watched a lot of videos, listened to podcasts, and read up on it.

Good for you that your taking the plunge into this big, detailed world of real estate!

I like basing my real estate investment decisions on data, and Airdna can give you a good set of data points to work from.Then on BP, check out the articles and videos done by @James Carlson.

In addition, I watch a lot of youtube videos and have learned a lot of great stuff from it.

However, getting into the details, and tax parts of it.

They dont even know if they live there.2 days ago I get video of a makeshift pen with a pitbull of some sort penned up in the back yard and then today photos of trash strewn all over the back yard.  

Take a look at this case and the vast amount of detail the IRS uncovered.

It gives you a low barrier of entry to buying (low down payment), you get favorable loan terms, it eases you into property management and lets you manage maintenance issues (hiring or DIY).There are lots of great videos and webinars on BP that go through this process in detail.Welcome to BP!

The video is of a ductless unit, but the same principles apply to a standard central AC. 

Once you think the numbers work then start calling people that are running ads and one conversation Should lead to another and hopefully you'll find enough reasons to fly out and meet some new contacts.Account Closed is correct there's a broad spectrum of deals to buy from a total gut job to a full on turn key program.I'd definitely stay away from fix and flips in the beginning and look at light rental grade rehabbs to full on turn key.The most important aspect of out of state rentals is the property manager, for this reason I finally decided to partner with a management company in Michigan to help protect mine and my clients assets.Ohio, Michigan and Missouri are still under valued and offering good returns.The detailed kind of information you're after is more of a phone or sit down conversation.