I'd encourage you to talk to a CPA before choosing a path.Since you are already an agent, the odds are good you could qualify as a real estate professional status (REPS) for tax purposes. 

Although consumer recognition has historically been lacking, it is encouraging to see that they are finally making good progress in this area.Thanks for feedback Calvin, your points are valid.  

@Travis TimmonsHey thanks for the words of encouragement!

I'd also encourage you to look at 4+ bedroom properties as well.

I'd highly encourage you to come to our next local meetup to networking and learn from others that are investing locally.

There is no scenario where this isn’t a gift given to real estate investors to encourage it.

Texas law actively encourages parties to settle disagreements without resorting to the legal system, and numerous contracts and agreements have clauses requiring ADR in the event of a disagreement.

@Amanda Bahil our lease states that we are not responsible for payments lost in the mail or stolen - specifically to cover events like this.Because of events like this, we also charge tenants a $10 Processing Fee if they send us rent via mail - to encourage them to pay electronically or deposit directly in our business bank account.Unlike the comments of others, we see this as 100% the tenant's problem, though not their fault.How do you think a lender for a mortgage or car payment would treat this?

@Cliff ConnorRecommend exploring as many sources as possible to get referrals AND cross-reference them to get as much accurate information as possible.Check out NARPM.com, BP’s Property Manager Finder (BiggerPockets: The Real Estate Investing Social Network), etc.Also, encourage you to learn from the mistakes of others - by reading posts here on BiggerPockets about owners not having their expectations met by their current Property Management Company.

Your rents should also be going up, trailing market rent just a little to not encourage turn over.