Please don't just go in and start plucking "deals" off the MLS.

However, for some reason the profit at sale seems to be skewed somehow or this is just a bad deal and I'm glad I signed up for bigger pockets.   

Yes, it would be a 100% LTV for them, but they're not concerned with that number, their interest lies more in the monthly payments that I will give them.If you were me, would you take a cut upfront as a fee (let's just say $5k), then keep the monthly cashflow as a reserve?

If you’re just starting out, I’d recommend to start small - look into single-family homes.

I live on the beach and do all my biz OOS.I have done let's just say one or two deals over the last 10 years all 100% remote.

Of course, this is just my opinion but I bet I'm not alone..If I'm an investor, I think the returns you're able to achieve in Costa Rica are higher than normal because you focus on these large properties and, as @Martin D. mentioned, prices in that country are too high and returns too low.

Or is the realtor? 

Chances of all going to zero are slim but just my personal preference.

What are some of the emerging neighborhoods or trends you’re seeing in these areas?

I'm hiring a property manager and the management contract requires a waiver of subrogation in favor of the property manager.