It also would be very difficult for a court in the US to go after an investment made there (since in the US people sue other people for no good reason) Financing is an issue there.

What’s a good rule of thumb to follow when starting a business or owning multiple properties for how much you should set cash aside to go towards the mortgage, expenses, emergencies and paying yourself?

Good luck. 

The only time we use ceramic tile is for showers with a window, where we can't use a surround, and then I will still use LVT for the bathroom floor.However, because we cater to families with kids, our winters are long and to avoid cabin fever we usually have a finished basement and carpet is the way to go.

Any advice on if this is a good idea?

Budget is about ~900K and looking at places which have good appreciation (and less risk of depreciation) in San diego.

In other words, I think a partnership where I bring the remodeling know how and sweat, (I have 26 years of experience and I have already created good relationships with subs I trust) and where the investor brings the money to pay for the property and rehab, could be a great fit for the kind of investor who wants to flip properties, but doesn’t want the hassle and stress of the rehab construction.  

I will record a collateral assignment of the mortgage with the county so the lender has good collateral with lots of equity during the duration of the loan. 

Good luck

You got it and good luck.