You could run into issues down the line without one, depending on your business structure.  

I'd try to call a few agents and see if they can run sold comps.Once you have access to sold homes, there's nothing to get caught up on.

Network with an agent who has worked with house hackers and start looking at properties and running your numbers. 

Ask anyone who ever tried to sell a cash flowing biz, it's not that easy (compared to selling a house)The best play IMO is to run a business and feed the profits into real estate.There are a million ideas, but you can start here: https://www.biggerpockets.com/biggerpockets-business-podcast

With all of these tools I felt like I have what I need to be comfortable with running my own properties. 

Its interest income - unless you wanted to run it through a C corp but then you pay corp tax first.Other option is to use a deferred retirement account. 

If you run into an agent who refuses to accept contracts, they are in violation.

Can you find something cheaper and run by a competent property management company?

Managing money might not seem as exciting as closing deals, but it’s one of the most crucial aspects of running a successful real estate business.

It wasn’t a home run, but one on the board.