For example, Citizen bank "approved" the short sale in Oct, but as they only check the file 1x a month, feedback is limited, and we don't know if anything is missing for a very long time.  

HiI've helped out of the country investors setup entire portfolios of residential properties here in the US.. in growing booming Charlotte NC to be exact.They don't even have social security numbers so even turning on utilities for fix up and prep to show to tenant prospects is a challenge.It sounds like you are a US Citizen so for you, it's a snap : )My clients start out by buying the first properties with cash.

The multi-family market in Cottage Grove isn't substantial; other than senior housing no market developments (of any size) have been built there for maybe 30 years.3.

I've also had good success with Citizens Community bank in Idaho.

but I am not getting to that number.I should note that I am paying all cash since I cannot qualify for a loan or mortgage (since I am not a citizen/resident).does this sound like a good return (8%)?

I'm amazed at @Timothy Grothuesmann's apparent ability to do so but then, he's almost retired and most likely senior personnel with short timer's disease and more time on his hands than someone who has "awhile to go before" retiring. 

Citizens bank of northern ky is great as well.

Reference Crime issues: I spoke with a Richmond PD Officer while up there and he suggested I sign up for a Citizen Courtesy Patrol - you can go out in a cruiser with an Officer or set for a partial shift as they drive around. 

I started getting interested in real estate my senior year of high school when I forgot a book for my English class and picked a random one of the shelf of my sports marketing class.

Check out larger multi family , corporate housing and/or senior care..just my opinion!