And while crime isn't out of control in either suburb, it is higher than the national average and the schools are medicore at best.

I am also in Cincinnati and I did speak with True Home Ohio (https://truehomeohio.com) and they seemed to be somewhat reasonable except I believe they take a flat fee of $105 per door so depending on how much rent is for that door it could be cheaper or more expensive but their other fees I thought were very reasonable.

Would it be more expensive to buy an older property like this vs buying a new construction in TX? 

Usually how many average starter homes 1800 SF - 2000 SF homes can you develop after driveways etc.

A good bonus structure can turn an average manager into an all-star. 

My average stay is 3-5 years.  

If the higher end rent prices on comparable units take an extra month to fill the vacancy and also the tenant stays 1-2 years instead of 3-4 years on average those landlord make LESS income charging that rental price ESPECIALLY if they pay a PM a placement fee upon turnover on top.

While you might find a lender offering low down payment options, you'll still need cash reserves for repairs, maintenance, emergency fund (ideally 3-6 months of expenses), etc.

In contrast, single-family homes attract families with children, who stay an average of five years and take care of the property.

The average 1st time homebuyer is 37 currently.