Yes, you can engage in construction projects in the US where a corporate entity is on the note, not the landowner.

It may sound nice to pay a 5% management fee but the extra fees can add up to be more than the other company that charges 10% with no add-on fees.

In regard to the $900 price, it sounds reasonable if you had 50 units - maybe, I don't know.... if you cant afford the time then its a cost you have to include. 

A 5 bedroom SFR that is renting for $690 with a value of around $30K sounds like a war zone.

That could be a great way to stay engaged with local investors and opportunities. http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsYou can also search for other investors in your area and follow their journey on Bigger Pockets here: https://www.biggerpockets.com/search/usersBest of luck to you and look forward to following your journey!

Sounds like you are doing all the right things to build a foundation for success in the industry.

Sounds like you already know that your mistake was "befriending" the tenant.

. - Sounds like it is just the shower that needs to be redone.  

It sounds to me like he's trying to squeeze some work out of you.What is common for your market?

Sounds impossible working a minimum wage job