My headaches have been minimal thus far.However, most important for you is to look for a base hit, not a home run.

But, could I minimize risk of renter defaulting on payments for the 2nd property by turning this property into a section 8 housing unit with guaranteed income from the gov't?

.**** At some point, future, I think I will want most all properties paid off so I can have great flow with minimal stress and maintenance numbers but kinda feel growth phase is still smartest as of now. 

Jumping in is very nerve racking and I'm trying everything I can to minimize my risk, but I guess I can only do some much planning before jumping right in

Most of my units are 1 / 1 apartments of similar configuration which has made it a lot easier to slot in new tenants with minimal gaps in the schedule.  

Was going for a 5% down loan but last minute had to adjust it to a 7.5% down but still a pretty minimal cash layout.

@Mary Joe in most states, a property tax reassessment chases market value.So, if you do the 2nd transfer soon after the first, the impact on property tax amount should be minimal.

But, could I minimize risk of renter defaulting on payments for the 2nd property by turning this property into a section 8 housing unit with guaranteed income from the gov't?

So I was right about there being an odd attraction to help keep these honest performance results in the dark.

By thoroughly vetting prospective tenants, you can minimize the likelihood of encountering non-payment issues and eviction down the line.