Compete on photos/amenities/good reviews; put all of your energy there.

This can be a huge time and cost saver, especially if you’re managing the property remotely or using property management.Energy Efficiency: New buildings are generally more energy-efficient, which can be a selling point for tenants and lower operating costs for you.Builder Warranties: Many new builds come with warranties, providing some peace of mind for unexpected issues within the first few years.3.

Be quick and efficient. 

I currently work in the energy sector, but my ultimate goal is to become financially independent through real estate.

Biggerpockets doesn't really allow you to search efficiently for them either. 

Quote from @Greg Friedman: I recommend self-management if you have the personality, time, and energy.

The property management software makes it extremely easy and efficient.

(That is completely legal although they will word it as something like a "refund for efficiencies")They will need to look over your policy.  

Scaling Ownership - Given our available cash and equity, what strategies would you recommend for scaling our property ownership efficiently?

You're asking someone to spend a lot of time and energy to share what they've spent years - maybe decades - learning and developing.