But those basically don't exist anymore.

This can lead to more opportunities and partnerships.Market Understanding: As a property manager, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the local market, which can be invaluable when you start acquiring your own properties.Steady Income Stream: Property management can provide a consistent income, which can be particularly beneficial in the early stages of your real estate venture.Skill Development: You'll develop a range of skills from customer service to maintenance oversight, which are crucial for successful property ownership.Brand Recognition: Establishing a presence as a reliable property management company can boost your reputation, making it easier to attract tenants and investors when you start acquiring properties.Cons:Time Commitment: Property management can be time-consuming, especially if you're dealing with multiple properties or demanding clients.Regulatory Compliance: Staying compliant with local laws and regulations requires diligence and can be complex.Conflict Resolution: Dealing with tenant issues and conflicts is an inevitable part of property management and can sometimes be challenging.Financial Risk: There are financial risks involved, including late payments or damage to properties.Market Fluctuations: The property market can be unpredictable, affecting both rental income and property values.Overall, starting with a property management company can be a smart way to enter the real estate space, especially in an area with a clear need for such services.

That way they're not soliciting you w/o a pre-existing relationship, and you still get to look at their work. 

It's important to choose that one and commit to using it.

I have a strong network here and know the key players/stakeholders in the community and am trying to learn how I can get involved to make an impact to change the community and restore the existing (beautiful) infrastructure. 

Also, Ohio does not allow "piercing the corporate veil" unless you commit fraud or a crime.

I prefer to self manage because its insanely cheaper and honestly not a huge time commitment.

Definitely look into HELOC/cash out options, but if those don't work in terms of rates or availability I'd suggest using the existing cashflow from your multi to offset a primary mortgage, and then find a primary with an ADU.

My question is ,is house hacking dead and to live rent free no longer exist in todays market ?

Selling some property to pay down high-interest debt is good, but also consider looking into ways to refinance or leverage your existing assets for better cash flow.