However, this allowed me to gain initial experience and confidence without being overwhelmed by managing multiple platforms simultaneously.

You can contact some local property managers and get a better idea of the rental market.

Hey Rachelle, I'm a broker and investor up in Sacramento, and manage about 100 investment properties, almost all Airbnb / STR.

For real estate investors, that means lower operational costs for managing properties and cheaper construction expenses.

I want to remain local in NJ or at most drive down 1hr to PA (self-manage or, last resort, hire a PM)However, I must also consider maintaining reserves, a safety net for my primary home, and an emergency fund.It's just hard for a new investor now :(

Jeff and I lend our own money and at least for me I do have some investors that I manage their funds along with my own.

It depends on the property.... is it value add where there's also a construction component or merely a management improvement opportunity?

@Jeremy H Barton - I'm an investor, flipper, and property management owner.  

- Who will manage it?

You'll let them break their lease and hand them cash.I manage 400 rentals.