Some really good points in these  last two comments. I have seen a lot of past comments from people who just can't make it there. We did  go and visit some cities recently and were reassured that a) the houses do exist and this is not a scam b) The most important item on the list is someone who you know and can trust to manage the house(s).

We spent too much time on zillow and google, not really getting the right info (but google does show if there are other houses around it and any other features.)  when we visited, we focussed too much on whether the houses were what we wanted to live in – that is not the issue. If it is what tenants are happy to live in and in a neighborhood where they look after houses – all is good.

We would like to buy more houses, but in a SMSF. Very difficult getting correct info on ATO compliance on whether a SMSF can borrow money overseas. We have formed a company and an LLC with the SMSF, but info is hazy. Non compliance will cut right across ALL SMSF investments not just the US ones. Anyone done this and feel comfortable?

Not sure what the latest economic bump will do, but they will still need houses to live in and rent – more so if more owners lose them.  We will try for section 8 tenants where possible.

good luck to all while we can do this.