Hi James - I published this article last year here on BiggerPocekts that pretty much covers your exact question/situation and lays out the options, etc - hope it helps!

They seemed to just rehash the WSJ article but put a more negative slant on it, and probably drew some info from the Real Deal article too.

I work with plenty of out-of-state investors who are seeing great success here in Ohio.Read this article on the "core 4".

Here is an article in the austin business journal talking about the redevelopment/development of the downtown area of Kyle.

The article only discusses producing electric car parts, which are clearly used by people outside of Kentucky. 

Series LLC, with its lack of filed Articles for the Cells is often a problem. 

Gregg posted a great article with information into one of the more popular markets (Conway) just announcing a win for property owners.

I just wrote an article about how to recognize when it is time to move on, and how you can do it swiftly.I see time and time again property managers, owners, and tenants having a great debate on what is functional necessity and what is decorative. 

Also check out this article published last year on BP on this exact topic/question - hope it helps!

Leaving aside if the JV is the best way to fund and assuming its not a scam than the fee is probably a very wise business move because a large percentage of the deals you see are from people who are delusional or are not taking numerous things into account (delays, closing cost, wrong comps, time, etc.).