You’ll want a reliable agent who knows the investor market, a property manager, contractors, and a lender familiar with out of state investor needs.

We’re considering whether to do mid-grade updates and rent it soon if we can find a good next property though acquisition and ongoing costs are a problem.

On a side note I also used John Maher at Key Properties to sell< purchase and run my property if you don’t have that lined up yet.

NOTE: most property management software is designed so that any building with more than one unit is categorized as a multi-family property.

You need to constantly hunt for deeply discounted properties, compete with experienced investors, and deal with unpredictable sellers and cash buyers.

"over time the property appreciates"? 

As you progress your bookkeeping business, you'll likely want to learn how to export statements from a variety of property management platforms, as investor books are housed in bank accounts, spreadsheets, and a variety of property management and accounting software!

For properties under $300K, you can definitely find okay options in these areas.

I am looking to buy my first investment property and have heard a lot about  Fort WayneAs an out of state investor, I am looking to connect with investors/agents in the area to build further knowledge on specifics with the markets and hopefully bring business to in the future!

You’ll want to focus on either finding a broker who’s okay with you doing property management or getting your own broker license.