Doing real estate and managing other peoples money from a fund are two very distinct skillsets.

The utility company doesn't manage your property...they provide paid services until they're not paid anymore. 

Cash flow depends on the down payment, but using a HELOC could keep your cash reserves intact while you get started.Make sure to build a reliable team (property managers, agents, etc.) to help you manage the property while working full-time. 

The time has come for me to start investing in real estate and before doing so i'm looking to build a strong and dedicated team of partners: agents, lenders, contractors and property managers mainly in the Cleveland area (but also open to markets within a 2-3 hr drive away) that already possess an excellent track record in their line of work and that value long term collaboration.

The current one lasted 8 years and needs to be replaced (as per what our property manager is saying)I heard front loaders could leak, so I typically only do top loaders for rentals.

Spending a ton on property management doesn't seem like the best move.

I'm going to try leasing the place out myself again, but if I'm struggling, I will hire property manager. 

I manage properties with both - but I recommend pots (although at home I use Keurig). 

We play matchmaker, put our clients first in all arenas, and also manage.

I have hot tubs in the majority of my STR that I manage and always request my clients to get them.