My law firm specializes in repping landlords and can straighten anything out "aka" My Muscle

Zelle, Paypal, ACH transfer.My of my tenants just deposit it directly into my bank account.

For example, we provide free ACH payments but charge a transaction fee to the tenant when they pay by credit card. 

In all cases you can pay online and/or via ACH (automatic draft) so it is relatively painless to keep up on the bills.Also one more item of note... you did not mention multi family at all, but if you do go that route, most multi family properties do not have separate water meters for each unit, so costs would need to be built into the rent, with no specific back charge possible to tenants.Feel free to add me as a connection or send me a private message.

However, tragedy hit at mile 35 when the outside of my right knee began a dull ache.

Use ACH, Zelle, deposit into your bank account etc, but don't chase rent.Then make sure you have a handyman and a good HVAC person/company.I work via txt msg.

Lastly with respect to income verification & rent collection- We insisted on periodic income verification (not just verification at the time of an application) and tenants had to have Bank Accounts and agree to ACH drafting of their accounts. 

Our brain is one of our most important organs In the body but sometimes keeping the brain for our mental muscle worked out and in great shape can fall by the wayside.   

Now it is up to him to flex his PM muscles or hire a full time PM. 

ACH?