1) I am wondering if it's doable to manage a condo/town house with tenants when I am out of state seasonal 9 months per year. 

If your house is old, value is low. 

Prices remain relatively low, but appreciation may be slower.Monroe: A mix of cash flow and appreciation potential, Monroe has become a popular choice for investors, especially in areas where new developments are popping up.Appreciation-Focused NeighborhoodsBallantyne: A well-established area with high demand, Ballantyne offers excellent long-term appreciation potential, though cash flow opportunities may be limited.South End: A booming urban hub with a vibrant retail and restaurant scene.

We recently relocated to Phoenix last summer and I'm starting to look for recommendations for local credit unions here in Phoenix which are trustworthy, low rates, personal touch, easy/simple to work with, etc. 

You'll be able to meet seasoned investors that can direct you in the right direction.

Keeping it friendly and low intensity is more likely to be successful.I recently offered to completely replace my neighbor's fence next to my rental and they said "No".

Honestly, I think you're estimated expenses are a bit low.

Basically all up and down the mid west markets.but you get to other areas of the country were used houses sell for more than New construction  and there are low inventories etc.. and trying to talk someone into a lease with the option to buy  is much tougher to a basic non starter..

Low or No House IdentityPeople want to take pride in where they live.

Selling slower here too--FL you have a lot going on--midwest has a seasonality effect.