Without him you would not have the property in the first place.It is not very respectful to think that your Father was not smart enough to handle his own affairs, yet left you a monthly income, several parcels of real estate, and a sizable pile of cash. 

They always say no.Oh, and when tenants start saying you are required to do something by law - I would tell them that I'd be happy to email them a link to the CA Dept of Consumer Affairs website that explains what a landlord is responsible for and what a tenant is responsible for.  

You should be able to get most of this information from your professional housing association or agency, your state's Consumer Affairs Department (landlord/tenant rights) or your local real estate association.

Reference NJAC 14:3-3A.6 from the NJ Dept of Consumer Affairs.

Don't know the laws in TN but I don't think you can kick anyone out because so and so had an affair with so and so or because so and so left in the middle of the night and only so and so is left behind in your rental.

The CA Dept of Consumer Affairs has a great website on this issue.  

My pal says she's learned that in her state, California, the Dept. of Consumer Affairs Contractors State License Board has a rule that unlicensed workers cannot do more than $500 in work, and that includes cost for parts.

We finally have gay marriage in CA and the Department of Veterans Affairs is no longer in the stone age, but I used to have to engage in completely stupid shenanigans (lawful shenanigans, but still clearly shenanigans) to be able to count the income of a gay veteran's significant other when using a VA Loan.

And I agree that I would be much more comfortable learning to manage my own affairs...So if I don't go with a PM, would a real estate agent still be worth relying on - at least temporarily so that I can ask detailed questions while I am still learning the ropes?

If I understand this correctly, you sublet your apt to two people, with a friend handling the affairs for you.