Your local REIA is always the best place to start, in my opinion.

Know good agents,  property managers. contractor that can walk the property.Etc.I’ll be investing locally in the Phoenix Arizona area. 

Study up on legal issues, property management, market research, property analysis, and finance possibilities.Participate in online forums like BiggerPockets, attend meetups, join local investing clubs, and establish online and offline connections with other real estate investors.

Do you do it yourself or you have a local manager?

In your particular case, I would consult with a local eviction attorney to get their take on the local laws and regulations.Nonetheless if a tenant tried to pull this on me, I probably wouldn't want them as a long term tenant in the future.

James - I am local to Ventura County and have helped multiple folks with VA Loan assumptions.I search the MLS for listings with FHA or VA loans.

You ought to attend the Valley Commercial Real Estate Awards on April 25, 6pm @ Orchard Conference Center in Northridge.

Make sure the title company is familiar with all the local and state laws and regulations. 

When it comes to wisely investing our hard-earned money, it's important to consider the data, seek advice from locals, or even visit the location in person.The cost of living in Jackson, TN is 4% lower than the state average and 14% lower than the national average.

3) Check out some of the local meetups that you can find in this forum!