First time investor: Out of State Investing & Condo/Townhouse

[Michael Mabrouk]

Hello,

I am thinking about the idea of looking to invest in a townhouse/condo in either the Dallas or Orlando/Tampa greater areas for a buy and hold rental property that I would like to move into down the road. Areas mentioned would be out of state for me so I wanted to see if anyone has recommendations for:

A. For first time investment property, if out of state investing might not make sense or if anyone has had success with it?

B. Experience with buying a townhouse/condo and renting it out with success? Or is single family home the real best way to go?

Reason I am looking more for townhouse/condo is maintenance for the property I do not want to deal too much with as I will be out of state so I'm not really looking for a fixer upper or a house where I will have to worry about taking care of lawn etc. if/when there is not tenant renting. 

Any general thoughts would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks everyone!