Betting on appreciation is just another form of gambling.

Some older established high end communities have boilers for example, ultimatley the transition is to to forced air however in some cases you may want tor retain the boiler system as it is a "lifestyle choice" in that area (this is merely one example).

I can help you establish credability with others outside of our world. 

As you already know, there are areas in Socal that already have a pretty established Asian population.

Even so, I would never use the word "partner" because that is a legal term describing a formal business relationship, it is not established  by casual dealings.

Aside from establishing whether a specific property is well priced, the currency, taxation, legal framework and property management areas will be the most important ones to research.

Absolutely - i.e. lack of commercial establishments, food options, litter removal, etc.  

I see too many novice investors on the side line while they set up an LLC, build a team, establish a marketing plan or whatever other BS someone told them to do before they get started, when the reality of the situation is that you will learn much more by doing that you will by preparing to do do something. 

I work with new investors all the time, and end up trying to help them navigate through all the stuff that they need to learn, but I won't go do an estimate on a house you don't already have under contract.If you establish a relationship with one or two GCs at an REIA meeting, you might find they're willing to do a couple walk-throughs with you on houses you're thinking about, and just float you a ballpark.

As you establish cash-flow, you can double down and get another property and so on.2) You can find an investor who believes in your vision.