I am an advocate for having your first investment be nearby so you can learn and monitor progress (most first deals end up having one issue or another since you're still learning).

Consult with the lawyer on this but from what I remember if you openly in possession of the property (live there) and pay real estate taxes for 7 years then you can claim the title.

@Wayne BrooksIf somebody hired me as a consultant and I tell my client I will be away for few weeks and my friend will cover is it fair of me ?

one more vote for "yes"More safety and accountability is better. also, an amenity that you did not have to pay for, monitor, or install and makes the tenant feel happier and safer....is always a winner in my book

I would consider consulting a legal expert. 

Pull upcoming foreclosure auctions and either try to bid on them (consult with someone who does title searches before you do this) or contact the owners to see if you can work out a deal before they loose it.5. 

I'd advise you to speak with a knowledgeable lender to get a consultation.

Consult a lawyer.

I have a real estate attorney and have consulted with her already.  

All in in with architects fees, Permits, HUD Consultant fees etc. his total rehab budget with a 15% emergency reserve became $398,372.