I am also looking for one in the same area, preferably with general contractor license.  

So something I’ve been thinking about - if you acquire (buy or rent) a property that’s far from where you live, how would you prefer to furnish it so that you can STR it?

All individual has the right to cool and heat, just like a regular tenant that could sue you if you don’t fix the heating unit and they’re freezing.

As a workaround, we just call the Zillow folks and do the phone screen and set a showing as needed but would prefer they just send us their number.

Preferably in the san fernando valley.

You have to look at the deals individually to make sure they work.

Each of these variables will dramatically change the advice I give the individual asking me this question.

They're just products of the individual banks that offer them, so each lender can make up their own rules. 

I am finally at the point where I can afford (barely) to get into a multi-family home and I'm actively looking between Albany, NY up through Queensbury, NY - though preferably somewhere in the middle.

I think understanding the leads on a more individual level can help show a more personal interest.