I guess zoning could be an issue, and specific local market conditions could play an important role (not everyone would want to live next to an airport!).  

I have a decent W-2 job in a director-level role, but my wife and I have decided that REI is the way to go for the long-term future of our family, beginning with flipping a house for an initial surge of cash to make a downpayment for a BRRRR property.

I have had several mentors over the years and they all played different roles but helped keep me on track. 

I like to put all of my proceeds into my personal account and role with it each month (paying "myself" first the 10% too").

But then again we did not have the Facebook, LinkedIn, Apple and Google dominate our lives as they do now, and they are all within very comfortable driving distance of Sunnyvale.

Additionally listing the rent role and maintenance costs for the past few years can allow projection of ROI so investors would not need to guess.

For a Conventional/FHA/VA Loan taxes play a large role in calculating the income of an investor.

I also have a secretary who can call tenants at will, and you could easily hire a virtual assistant to perform this role.

They DO play a role in commercial lending.

So don't be afraid to seek advice from as many people as you can even if they don't have the full blown role of mentor for you, and as always don't forget to bring what value you can when you approach someone for mentorship.