I always keep a lockbox at my locations for this purpose.

It's same as everywhere but location is everything as Japanese population has been declining all prefectures except Tokyo, Nagoya and Fukuoka.

I currently operate a few STRs so have a good understanding of that aspect although they're all located in touristy locations.

I also don't want to focus on one market, and not be able to score the right property for who knows how long, and then end up missing out on other locations, as being a long distance land lord is very popular as well.

( Regarding interior, and not HOA, management, location)Anyone has experience renting for snowbirds?

So, make sure YOU understand the copy & paste info below:Recommend you first figure out the property Class you want to invest in, THEN figure out the corresponding location to invest in.Property Class will typically dictate the Class of tenant you get, which greatly IMPACTS rental income stability and property maintenance/damage by tenants.If you apply Class A assumptions to a Class B or C purchase, your expectations won’t be met and it may be a financial disaster.If you buy/renovate a property in Class D area to Class A standards, what quality of tenant will you get?

Firstly, it often generates higher rental income compared to long-term leases, particularly in desirable locations or during peak seasons.

We found an opportunity to purchase a huge SFR with two kitchens located next to a commercial zone which was previously used as a sober living facility.

It is still a seller's market in many geographic locations, so you can ask potential buyers for an extended closing period and/or with options to extend the closing period. 

I would look for a 2 bedroom 2 bath duplex with a one car garage for each side located between the two units and each front porch on the each end of the building.