My hope is to own a rental property that doesn't require regular ongoing maintenance - Because I'm new to this, I'm not entirely sure how syndications work and would prefer to start with something that I can understand a little better (or learn relatively quickly)Low maintenance => Class A property, but unless you put more than 20% down, they won't cashflow for 3-5 years.

Flying in personally adds risk and doesn’t improve your legal position.2) Security deposit and the 45-day ruleYour former PM is largely correct on timing, but not necessarily on control.In Maryland:The security deposit must be accounted for and either returned or itemized within 45 days of move-out.You are allowed to deduct for unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear and tear, and missing fixtures or appliances.You are required to provide an itemized statement with receipts or estimates.Red flags in your situation:The PM cannot produce a copy of the lease.

Local knowledge, trust, and data security were the bigger considerations for us, not time zones.

Under this statute, a “residential mortgage” is defined as “a loan secured by real estate containing two or fewer residential units,” regardless of whether the property is owner-occupied or held for rental use.

A firm called John Burns Real Estate Consulting puts together a regular which I follow and the signal is clear: expansion mode is here.Capital is flowing again.

Margin should be used exclusively for emergencies, not regular activities. 

If not, I fear your recourse options are going to be very limited.However, if you've got a secured lien interest, I've got a great Texas attorney to recommend.

I also don’t allow them to book months in advance as that could eliminate bookings or leases in the meantime.Make sure you know the laws in your state regarding security deposits and regular deposits if applicable.

You will usually be paying 9%+Now if it is a regular homeowner that can not move a property where you can buy well below market, light rehab, and a low interest rate or no interest rate, I would look further into it.

Rental income was lower than regular leasing.