Out of State Investment (Austin/Houston/Portland)

[Account Closed]

Hi, 

I am looking to invest in the range of 300-350K. The objective would be investment, so I would be looking for good rental properties. 

I live in San Francisco, but can't afford anything in the bay area, hence I am looking at areas like Austin, Houston, Portland etc. No particular reason to select these cities.

I am looking at more of a passive investment, so something that doesn't involve frequent travels to the location. 

I wanted advice on how to get started with it, specifically,

- How to shortlist properties ( I was thinking of 1 or 2 bedroom apartments as they are easy to rent out)

- Should I go with a property management company/agency for the end to end process (buy then rent) or buy first then look for property management company

- How risky is it to rely on property management company completely and manage remotely

- Any other advice

Its my first post to BiggerPockets so apologies if its not as per the guidelines. 

Regards,

Ajitesh