Hi Erin,I lived in Baltimore for 20+ years and now live in Breckenridge, CO.While I lived in Baltimore, I self-managed multiple LTRs (long term rentals) and now here in Breck I self-manage two STRs (short term rentals). 

I have had several of my short-term owners go to a self-insure model (i.e. they only get liability insurance on paid for properties) in recent years.

In some cases they may feel less bad about contacting a person vs a company.Also for self-fixes it depends on the condition of your place, but a major fix will need to be taken care of whether you self-manage or not.  

.), Designing and Furnishing (amenities, design, theme, linens, etc), and operating (Insurance, Property management or self-management, Tech & Tools, Cleaners & handy people, etc)All of these could be covered depending on who you work with that can cover each topic. 

If they are not, you can roll over your 401k into a Self Directed IRA (SD IRA) and invest in real estate that way. 

You'll learn more quickly about ownership and management since you'd be able to self manage it. 

I own 11 and self manage. 

While I am not in middle TN (I did used to live in Rutherford County, though), I am in the STR game and self manage.

I do real estate agency and occasionally flip plus self-manage and Quickbooks and apartments.com work best for me. 

I am new to self-managing, but I haven't dealt with any eviction at all through former property managers either.