So I'm leary of getting into another contract and being left with a ghetto laundry room in a couple years.Those machines I sent link to from Home Depot are around $1200/each so was curious if you come out ahead to buy them and just have an appliance repair out when they break??

If it's just for answering calls and trying to filter spam, you could utilize a call tree type service (Click 1 for sales, 2 for leasing) That typically filters out a lot of the automated spam calls as they can't navigate the menu. 

. - and you'd be ahead.

It's good that you're valuing relationships and choosing an asset class this early, that's a step ahead the curve already.

I'm also getting ahead of the curve because West Sac is up and coming and also with the Oakland A's coming to the stadium.

Go to the top of the page and click on "PROPERTY MANAGERS" to see if there are any available in your market.

You need someone who clicks with you personally before engaging in a mentor/mentee relationship with the dedication and stress that may be involved.Where to find a mentorStart by looking within your existing network.

You'll want to know ahead of time that the bank will do this. 

What I have seen so far as another newb who is probably not much further than 5 minutes ahead of you in the REI journey:It will not matter during the acquisition process (unless you are finding your own off market deals).CONS:-Not great to deal with tenants because of privacy reasons. 

One key to mitigating that would be to go ahead and start your 1301 exchange.