Did you ever meet the lender in person?

I would suggest finding and teaming up with a local real estate agent who deals with investment properties so you can work with a licensed person and stay out of the state's crosshairs.With that being said, I'm a buyer in the OKC and Tulsa markets and have a few contacts up there.

I also personally own 7 of these types and I think make a lot of sense for cash flow and stability.

Are they allowed to get out of their contracts?

I bought my first rental in my personal name because I got a great rate from my credit union.

Set your goal on using your personal credit and cash. 

I personally used Jon McGraw in the past and he is extremely knowledgeable in the field. 

Their maintenance people aren't very good based on my personal experience.

Holding any asset in an entity as opposed to personally MAY limit potential liability solely to that entity and not expose other personal assets.  

Once you feel good about them, fly or drive there and meet them in person.