Networking through meetups and leveraging online communities like BiggerPockets can provide invaluable support and insights as you take your first steps.Good luck!

Hey Chris - thanks so much for the thoughtful response! 

Focus on identifying promising neighborhoods in the north or east bay by leveraging your husband’s contractor network, local real estate agents, and online deal-finding platforms.

In terms of maintenance, they are generally safer because you are not responsible for the exterior and common areas and potential leaks, etc.

If you're more of a 'personal referral' person than a 'do research online' person, and this is local to you in Manhattan, KS, hit up one or two of the trades people in the "little apple all stars" BNI group.

I appreciate the response.

@Brett SynickyThanks for your response.

I just wasn't sure if it is my responsibility to do something if the electric bill is high and are not satisfied. do I have to be concerned about that?

If the seller isn't responsive, then do like the idea of telling the tenant you tried, and see if they can get some free legal assistance from a tenant resource center.It is a good reminder as closing approaches to ask the seller to keep tenants updated on the pending sale and when ownership is scheduled to change.

While I always prefer to do deals with local, responsive agents.