I find my deals off-market and do some cosmetic updates.In short, it's not for everyone and many will fail trying to run this playbook from out of state (or even locally).There are still areas and markets that work, you just need to be more creative or willing to put more work in than you did in the past.

Many nuances to all this but ... consult with a local roofer that you TRUST for the details.

I have found with my guests, they devour the combination of property info and local recommendations that I give them.

Alternatively join a local REI Association and get it from them along with ongoing support and networking.

Most other developed economies like Japan and most of Europe have gov't backed title, a few other countries have a hybrid structure, and it is really only the US and Canada that are all about private title.

Most of the liaisons that the lender provides for "guidance" are not local and don't know the ins and out of construction in NYC.

My agent is the greatest (he is also a local real estate investor).

I would google and find a local REI or Land lord Association and join them.

Local Connections: Are there any Cleveland-based BiggerPockets members you recommend connecting with?

If not I have one that helped me figure out an estimated return as well as analyze the local market and how I figured out an estimated vacancy rate.