I wouldn't recommend it for a number of reasons. 

I would recommend anyone that gets started has at least a list of 10,000 to ensure they can get 1-2 deals that first month. 

I'd recommend either being in Italy for some time out the year, every year you have property here, or have someone physically here (like me!)

Quote from @Mikal Toliver: It’s an exciting time go learn, understand, and practice real estate estate investing.

I would maybe recommend reaching out to another CPA or two to get an idea of the cost in your area and with your situation to see if you're overpaying.

I recommend you read "Long-Distance Real Estate Investing" by David Greene.

If you want to get into MTR or STR I have better markets to recommend.

Recommendation on how to find a honest,  agent in the Cleveland,Ohio area. 

If there is not enough STRs in the market you are in then you have to adjust business practices.

With a budget of $300K-$400K, you could potentially find single-family homes or small multi-units in those areas.I'd recommend researching rental demand near universities like Duke or NC State or even checking out neighborhoods with strong job growth near tech hubs.