I also know other investors who hold properties in the USA - they have no choice but to hire PM's (Property Managers).Depends on how you want to run your business, some like hands on, some (like us) prefer hands off!

What kind of exit strategy do you prefer?

So, no difference, and I actually prefer not to be able to drive by my properties all the time.

Some make it their niche! 

Perhaps suggest that if she prefers, you are happy to assign that spot to the other tenant since it is always blocked anyway.

The reason you don’t want to call the most important (or preferred) banks first is that you’re going to use all the first phone calls as a learning process so you can get your pitch down and sound like you know what you’re talking about by the time you reach the banks you really care about.There’s a reason it’s difficult to secure loans.

It comes down to preference to the shopper in how seamless the loan process is made as to whether they use them or not.

In most cases, one can negotiate with a seller to help cover closing costs of title co and escrow people I know are good - even if they have a 'preferred provider' as I'm sure you know as an agent. 

Mother in law suites shrink your buyers pool - a great asset for someone that is looking for that specific feature  - a deterrent to the other 95% of folk that would prefer not to have it.

I now have the financial security/confidence to take action and I am looking to start investing in income properties, preferably multi-family homes.