Investors that self manage: becoming a handyman yourself...how?

[Ho Eun Park]

Hello,

Kind of an odd question. I have a dilemma where my current property manager may retire in ~5years. I mean that's still awhile but I am the type of person that likes to think many years ahead.

I recently graduated with two degrees and started working full time M-F while managing the properties time to time on the side along with my PM. I got very lucky in finding my PM who also happens to be a landlord for many properties in Southern California. She has her go-to contractor/handyman but I think they all might be retiring in ~5 years since they are at the age for retirement and have been casually discussing about retiring sometime soon. Just thinking about is dreadful since my PM has made my life a lot easier throughout the years. 

I have been reading some forums where people will self-manage their own properties. Heck, I even read on the forums where some people will self manage out of state (I think that's amazing that you found a way to self manage out of state without a PM). 

So the question(s): for those that self manage your own property, how did you learn the basic handyman skills for fixing/repairing basic things without the need to call a contractor/handyman? I am reading on some forums where people will fix or do everything themselves and I am wondering how did you gain those experience/skills... especially if you are working full time and doing this on the side?

I am thinking about reaching out to a construction company or even a handyman to be a mentor or take apprenticeship/assistant (I have seen some companies and handyman working on the weekends) so that I can learn the basics. Is that feasible or not recommended? I think it will be nice to know the basics/fundamentals and I am always eager to learn new knowledge. I think it will be beneficial in the long run for future investments as well.

OR another option I am thinking is attending a vocational school? I have seen some with short programs with low/affordable tuition. 

What do you advise? Is it a bad idea?