I'd highly recommend house hacking in your local market since you're in one of the highest cost of living areas in the US, especially if you're renting currently and planning on staying in the area for 5-10 years.It sounds sexy to go out and invest out of state for your first property.

My recommendation is to save money through your W2 until you not only have enough for a down payment but a reserve for repairs as well.

But I can't recommend something I would not do as an investor myself, so here it goes:1.)

When starting out, I’d recommend focusing on one or two markets max.

In most cases, I don't recommend renting out your primary residence especially if you have no rental experience and that is because usually your primary residence was bought without the idea of renting it out.  

Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

I'd say, if you can renegotiate the purchase price and get the knob and tube replaced I'd recommend it. 

I wouldn't recommend this for research purposes. 

Any particular companies you’d recommend? 

I would recommend that you do your research and seek out the best property manager in your area.