However, there are only a handful of companies that I know firsthand that are good at providing quality properties and quality service.  

Usually the CPA and attorney will work hand-in-hand.I can give you names for either in the San Diego area if you're interested; just send me a message if you would like more info.

I thought security deposits had to be retained on hand. 

I agree with everyone on this thread, working with a property management company is going to be hands-down the best way for you to learn everything there is in property management.

So the asynchronous nature of tenant requests, coupled with trying to get them handed out to the right handyman, plumber, etc, are driving me insane.Is this something that can be outsourced without going to a full 3rd party property management arrangement?

To understand this gap, I would love to get my hands on a mutually exclusive, completely exhaustive list of activities a realtor does as part of their 3%.

As it will be my first home for investment purpose, I am looking for single family property, try to get a good tenant ( that’s why I initially was targeting on A/B+ areas) to get foot in the door and start having hands on in rental investment.

I'm investing in San Antonio, Currently have a handful of single family houses that I use for MTR/STR.Pros of investing in San Antonio - High potential for appreciation.

If I were them, I'd focus on the business at hand.

Only you and your agent can make the decision.If you buy it,  count on finding unexpected problems that require fixing, and make sure you have the cash on hand to cover them.