What we've found is that, just like you and I, the first place everyone goes when their motivated to find solutions & answers is online, even when they about to lose the house and have direct mail laying on the dinner table.Online ads are ideal in many ways because you can target the exact type of client you want, in the exact area you want, when they are motivated, and usually for cheaper than other advertising forms versus time and return.  

Hi Jean,Good news... there are lots of resources (like BP) and I would check out books on the topic (lanldording, ideally for your scale)...

Ideally, the association manages the premises and finances (but the reality may be not so much...)The declaration by laws and such are key, and they prevent all sorts of things (like you working on items outside your unit or even renting your unit).

I want to have a general idea on what I am going to do about financing so when I really start hunting hard when I am getting ready to move back, I can take action.My father is on board, and willing to co sign on a loan, and provide some extra funds if needed, but ideally I would be able to do it myself. 

@Andy Whitcomb The business is called "A Stroke of Excellence", based out of Port Orchard.  

To your original question, usually the ideal timeline is as follows: 1. form an LLC for your REI projects, 2. identify the HML you want to work with, 3. establish a relationship with them (e.g. we do an integration call with all our new clients where we establish exactly what their goals are, whether and how they can achieve them with us, etc.), 4. find your property, 5. quickly check with your HML if their numbers match your estimates, and if yes (i.e. if your HML will fund that deal), make an offer on that property. 

Ideally you want is to find a 3-4 unit property that will carry itself with you living in one {the least profitable} unit and not paying rent.

Ideally I am looking at single or multi unit rental properties that can be cash flow positive around the ~100k range, so ~25k down.

Ideally, you should have bought the properties in the name of the LLC to start with but there are ways to get the properties into the LLC, one of which would be to sell the properties to the LLC (but this would require you obtaining another financing option).

Ideally when a resident dies, the relatives would immediately hire an attorney and begin the process of opening up a probate estate.