@Shayne HastingsIf you do decide to go across the country make sure to do some due diligence on the area first.

Interesting to know how loans work in different countries.  

That said, just to start the thread off, I thought I'd provide some general feedback...My observation has been that drywall costs -- labor and materials -- are tremendously consistent around much of the country (unlike a lot of trades). 

I'm heading out of the country for two weeks mid April, so will plan accordingly.

Hey Gregory Hunter welcome to BP and thanks for your service to our country.

I specialize in green building and high performance homes, as well as utilizing the best state incentives and tax credit programs in the country to make these kinds of improvements cost-effective.

The credit scoring system in this country tags people who make minimal payments on large balances as good credit risks.

My goal is to get started in REI, but I really wanted to know what would be the best way to do this while I am out of the country?

Operating expenses are similar throughout the country. 

I have seen NONE that have a potential wholesale profit.Keep in mind that this is specific to CA, but I have investor clients and partners that do RE investment transactions all across the Country.