Since I live in an expensive market, I'll need to do remote investments in the near-term, so right now focused on turn-key properties. 

I know during covid some started giving them access remotely, but this is exactly why I think it is a problem. 

Do you think purchasing a property in Philadelphia, PA, and managing it remotely from Westchester, NY (Roughly 2-2.5 hours away) with the help of a local handyman would be too much of a stretch?

McKinney is thriving, but so are other parts of North Texas, and a broader perspective could reveal other great opportunities.Here’s what I’ve observed managing a significant number of rentals in the area:Bedrooms and Layouts:3-bed, 2-bath homes consistently attract the largest pool of tenants and have the highest occupancy rates.4-bedroom homes have grown in demand, especially with the rise of remote work, as tenants look for extra space to use as a home office.Square footage is less critical than number of beds and baths.Supply and Demand:McKinney’s growth is driving demand, but the quality of the location matters greatly.

Worrying everyday about getting fired for something out of your control?

@Eric SmithGenerally, if the taxpayer sells the relinquished property to an unrelated party, the taxpayer generally cannot acquire replacement property from a related party unless:The related party is also participating in a 1031 exchange.The related party pays more in tax on the sale to the taxpayer than the taxpayer is deferring in the exchange (this scenario is rare).Let’s look who is considered a related party: Spouse, children, grandchildren, parents, and siblings.Corporations and shareholders owning more than 50%.Commonly controlled corporations.Partnerships and partners with more than 50% interest.Trustees, grantors, and trust beneficiaries.Non-Related Parties:In-laws.Aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces.Friends.Domestic partners.Entities owned 50% or less by the taxpayer or a related party.In your case, your mother-in-law, aunts, and cousins are not considered related parties to you under the definitions in Sections 267(b) and 1031(f).

It sound like you have your area under control. 

After that's under control, focus on increasing income through additional work at your current job, taking on a side hustle, or finding ways to increase income on your existing rental.At the same time, educate yourself.

For certain areas annual pest control may be needed for colder areas maybe you run the risk of freezing pipes.

build to rent is great. they are an intermediary that help investors contract direct with turn key new build. they are pretty sophisticated we have sold a house so far and we are looking to sell other multifamily with them. there is a vetting process and as an intermediary they don't control construction they help vet builders and establish relationships. they have a big team. the other builder I've never heard of but unless you can see your house I wouldn't touch it. rent to retirement has a strict policy of 90 days until certificate of occupancy until they will send a deal out they are good at what they do and I'd recommend them. they have options all over the country and established relationships.