We don’t know any PMCs to recommend in the area mentioned, but since selecting the wrong PMC is usually more harmful than selecting a bad tenant, you might want to read our series about “How to Screen a PMC Better than a Tenant”:https://www.biggerpockets.com/member-blogs/3094/91877-how-to-screen-a-pmc-better-than-a-tenant-part-1-services-and-processesWe recommend you get management contracts from several PMCs and compare the services they cover and, more importantly, what they each DO NOT cover.

That’s funny to me they compare a home that’s taking on rain from the outside inside, basements full of water all the windows broken, everything is wet and has to be re paired.

I'd start by refining your search criteria, researching the surrounding markets, and comparing them to what best fits your needs, etc. 

You'll have access to owner occupied loan products, therefore saving on your down payment, typically 3-5% compared to 20-25% for non owner occupied properties.

I've been tracing wholesalers in califonia for months, like nothing other state finding individual wholasalers in califonia is quite challenging I don't know if it's because the house prices are too high compared to other markets.

I do feel like Haverhill is much in the "path of progress" than comparable areas like Lowell and Lawrence, so it's a city on my radar for sure.

Verify employment and call previous landlords to avoid tenants with red flags.Rent Setting: Research comparable rentals in your neighborhood to ensure your rent is competitive.Use Technology: RentRedi is a great choice.

“ cash flow returns” almost always compare horribly to a simple bank CD after you deduct for insurance, prop taxes< vacancy, capex, prop management (or your personal time.) etc etc etc. 

How would you guys compare Columbus to somewhere like Memphis that has similar price points?

The type of home you can get in White House is a different universe compared to what you'll get in Nashville if you're trying to be 5 mins from the urban core.Make a list of what is MOST important to you and that will guide your decision making.