However, I don't like the idea of starting off owning property in another jurisdiction altogether, as I can't gain the hands-on experience and I'm sure there are some cross-jurisdictional tax implications that I'd rather not have to deal with at the moment.Any help that can be provided would be greatly appreciated.Thanks

I recently formed a new LLC that will be involved in buy/sell, and buy/hold transactions.

How many transactions have you closed, with investors?

Then simply add an ACH interface which should you can find for $.55 per transaction.

I've been doing some simple "what if" analyses on listings from the MLS, just to help myself understand the thresholds of ROI and cash returns.I have all sorts of questions, of course, but I'll tread lightly with the intro to make sure that I don't cross any lines with what is allowed.  

If an investor is to go this route and is contacted by a seller, how does the transaction happen?

I pay a flat fee around $600 per transaction to my broker and I keep the rest.  

I like @Rick's response - - UNLESS you are a party to the transaction (for clarity, the buyer OR the seller) you'll only muddy the water and if you were involved as a contractor at any capacity, you can easily get your name sullied needlessly. 

I suppose you know what the balloon payment is now, however most residential loans are NOT assumable and I read the ad as the seller selling as a "Subject-To" transaction as an all inclusive deed is a type of special warranty deed where the seller does not give clear title, title is subject to paying off the existing lien as agreed.

I am all for investing in local real estate transactions however ever since we have rented properties on VRBO I have been curious if these types of investments work well for people.