A lawyer could speak to it better, but I would be concerned about screening this way. 2.

Speak with a local Realtor who knows the market, but also is knowledgeable about creative financing options.Good Investing...

But the answer for everyone may differ.Here are the personal attributes I see in those able to achieve a higher than market ROI, enough higher to be able to “scale”.1- Knowledge of real estate principles, real estate law and real estate finance2- Minimum 3 -5 years full time, or near full time experience directly related to real estate investing3- Ability to utilize technology for increased efficiency, capacity, and accuracy4- Excellent hired legal counsel and excellent hired marketing help5- Established method(s) of obtaining consistently high QUALITY deal flow6- Ability to manage and choose people who are NOT employees: Attorneys, Appraisers, Mortgage Brokers, Real Estate Brokers, Title Companies, Surveyors, Marketing Specialists, Accountants, Contractors, Consultants, Property Managers7- A VERIFIABLE track record of success8- Ability to identify, analyze, and negotiate a deal that can be “worked” for “enhanced” ROI9- Some type of competitive advantage; for example for me it’s my ability to analyze and identify mortgage loans that are actually less risky than all other lenders believe (on the investing in debt side), and on the real property side it’s my ability to analyze”pull the trigger” with LESS information than other investors need,  combined with the ability to pay cash, or raise significant capital almost instantly as well as being able to obtain loans at the lowest prime customer bank rate with no recourse or personal liability.  

Then, speak to a lender or two and ask them to help evaluate your deal! 

So far I am happy with my property manager but constantly want to be on the lookout/speaking with other investors in Detroit about their experiences with their firms.

@Nick Belsky thank you Nick, I would love to speak about non conventional avenues.

I look forward to speaking with you.

Note, I speak of this as an immigrant household.To expand on #3; international trade is good.

I've done this so many times it is crazy, so speak with experience.Also in small towns trades can be tricky. 

We will quickly correct the excess spending, and fill the vacant units with quality residents.