That is definitely something I'm open to, unfortunately, I have no idea when I will be moving back to the states, so rather than wait for that I'm looking for ways I can get invested within the next year or so ideally.

One is cash, and I have to chase her down every month, but she lives 2 minutes from my house, so I deal with it.Bookkeeping: I use quickbooks. 

I have great credit 750+ but am not sure if it is ideal to just pay cash or to get a loan.Anyone been in a similar position? 

You will want to button that up because the interest deduction would fall on your 1040, and you would want it falling somewhere else on your tax return (schedule E, business return, or the like).  

Ideally for the best fannie/freddie the loan amount will be $1mm+.  

You just have to calculate that into your projections as a cost of doing business.I suppose, ideally, you could get your license and go through your own broker for the sales contract and legal support in purchasing your properties.

I deal with old plaster demo and asbestos etc, and today I ran out of masks.

Things come up as a landlord, and ideally you shouldn't be coming out of pocket to pay.

If we do sell and for a good profit, ideally we'd close after the 2 year mark to avoid capital gains tax. 

A house-hack deal would be ideal for a first investment as it will allow you to get your foot in the door with a low down payment.Best of luck to you moving forward!