Let's connect as I travel there about every quarter.

I’m self managing myself but the tax side of it is a little confusing to me but I’m recording everything involved as far as maintenance, traveling, expenses etc. just want to know what some people would do in my situation or what to I can benefit from come tax season  @Angelo LlamasI recommend that you find a real estate accountant to help you understand and prepare your taxes.Bigger Pockets is a great place to find a real estate tax accountant. 

I work a lot, probably more than the average W2, but we also travel a lot, at least 6 trips every year.So that's what's driving me, numbers on a screen are nice, but they are not fulfilling on a personal level.

If I may, let me offer some tactical advice and then some unsolicited general advice.Tactical advice: marketing to traveling oil industry workers probably isn't radically different than what you have been doing to get your rooms filled with students.

I would factor in time to travel to any market, but AZ is relatively quick compared to the east coast. 

Mostly this is looking at habitability issues. 3.

Make sure you choose a realtor who is used to travelling into your target community and not just engaging properties from behind a phone/computer screen.

It could be worth transitioning to a midterm rental if there's demand for that type of housing in your area, like traveling professionals or remote workers.

One word of caution: the court orders typically allow repairs to make a home habitable, i.e. rent-ready, but not cosmetic or similar non-essential repairs, like upgrades or additions.

Developing and reinforcing habits I have found to always be a key driver and formula for success.