Now I'm going to learn how to fix a problem.

Fact is we have a massive net unit shortage, and until everyone decides to have only 1 child in their lifetime or the rapture, maybe thermo-nuclear war, the numbers keep growing this problem. 

You also run into the same problem as US citizens do when they invest out of state but to a much larger degree because you're in a different country. 

He said no problem as long as I'm paying the bills.

Try framing this problem as follows given you have W2 (high earner) + investment returns 1) Investment Return Optimization : You can set up LLC /your name etc to manage expenses so that you demonstrate appropriate amount of expense adjusted return/cash flow.

If your neighbor's exterior paint is chipping, it will definitely becomes your problem as you mow the lawn (for example).

The fundamental problem, as @Tiffany Alexy pointed out and you already opined (although it is fact), is that the number of duplexes in the Raleigh market is small.

Your problem, as you have state, is how you feel about that decision.

Here in the States, refinancing a property we bought in cash and having the bank give us cash hasn't been a problem.

The problem as i see it is that the quality of this program and the care associated with it will suck and resemble going to county hospital for services.