I normally advise people to self manage for the first part of their journey if they can so that they can get a knowledge base to become better investors.At some point if you get to enough units self management is tough and its too costly to hire an employee so the numbers make sense hiring a property manager.To be blunt, you are going down a risky path for an investor.  

I wouldn’t advise lying to tenants.

@Bruce LynnThat is some really great advise about the rent sign and the contractors.

I wanted to get advise if any of the agents would be interested in working with me to build an investment brokerage.  

I would advise as others have here, and strongly suggest the house hack strategy to start with!

I had to jump in though because I was advised that you can be sued for the equity in your houses, not for the remainder with a loan on it (basically that portion is considered your lender's, so can't be taken in court).

If you're thinking about renting out when you're not around, I'd advise using a short-term rental strategy, the numbers are strong and it's a lucrative market.The attractions there range from zip-lining, white-water rafting, and wineries, there's even more to discover, which is what's driving more traffic to the area and it has truly become a great destination spot. 

Thanks Bruce, I appreciate your advise.

Any advise would be greatly appreciated.

I would advise you to not stack risk factors.