If you are only looking to create a trust to avoid probate, you could probably hire an attorney to make a revocable trust.

We used to hire a company to balance the chemicals and my costs were almost 2K per month.

Networking with local investors through BiggerPockets, Facebook, and meetups can help you navigate the market, while avoiding common mistakes like underestimating expenses, poor tenant screening, and hiring the wrong property manager.Good luck!

If you don't know how to do everything (or unsure about anything) hire an attorney to do for you. 

I personally own a large portfolio here in Memphis and I hired a property manager for the very first proeprty and I still use them today. 

@Hedman Maximus too many investors worry about DIY pennies, while losing dollars - which it seems you may be doing.Why can't you hire a PMC to handle the properties for you?

I'm planning to turn it into a rental and was wondering if I should consider hiring a property manager for my first rental.

As RE developers we all know how important it is to hire good, reliable residential contractors. 

Next you want to hire a realtor.

You can hire a real estate agent.