I'll spend a few hours making a huge list of all the probate petitioner names and their mailing address from county records.

Communication has always been the sticking point for me as I am not quick to trust my investment to someone with no skin in the game and who hasnt' gotten my ok on spending my money.In my mind it might be better to find a realtor or other money partner in long distance properties and pay them a management fee for that service. 

If you're concerned about how the yard looks, I would recommend using grass seed that is native to Texas and can handle the heat in addition to xeriscaping to save on water. 

Year 1 returns are often negative and the only guarantee when you buy a house is that you are about to spend a pile of money. 

There is additional framing and electric in the basement that could be turned into a bonus room, bed room or if I was really trying to open up a can of worms, a 3rd unit. 

At least buy a book or two and study before you spend significant money.

That provides no additional protection.

These homes often have an entry point of $800,000+ and may require additional capital investment right away to update furniture, cosmetics, or do unique theming in the property so that it can generate maximum revenue from day one. 

There are many things that could be overlooked as part of the renovation on fire-damaged properties.As far as additional things to consider in the rehab: The challenge with fire damaged properties is that there is more than meets the eye.

I have cleaners come through once a month and that is my touch point...but that is it and it has been the most passive strategy I have come across.Disadvantages: - Screening Processes: You will need to build additional processes around screening these tenants like a LTR.