IME with due respect to architects they are not generally necessary for simple remodels.

This is typically for most people not a DIY project. 

Ends lease on July 2025.In December, tenant said there was an odor coming from garbage disposal.Tenant had tried their own DIY fixes for a month with no resolution. 

It's really simple; when ya don't know what to do or how to do it HIRE and employ those who do. 

For your first deal, it might be beneficial to try doing some of the simple work yourself so you know what goes into it.

However, I wouldn't DIY and would contract everything out.

I think for just one or a few, you could just DIY it with Amazon hardware.

Going DIY and self-managing this type of asset from another state may not be an easy task for such a building and neighborhood, it needs more attention (and probably capital).Try an unconventional approach.

So, here’s my question.. do you think you’d be more comfortable taking the DIY approach with strict guidelines, or might a property manager give you the peace of mind you need?

@Colin Ford recommend getting experience with your RI duplex before going OOS.You should DIY manage the unit next door, so you LEARN about property management, the goog, the bad and the ugly.Then you'll be so much better prepared to invest OOS!