The property should be clean, functional, and safe.A well-maintained property attracts higher-quality renters that will pay more, stay longer, and take better care of the home.

I can’t afford to pay him for a lousy job and stay on budget. 

It's how you will make money and stay lendable.

@Trenton BrownSounds like you're staying on top of it which is good. 

If you can drive to see it, even if it's a long drive, you will stay more on top of your investment.4.

At this point I have read the How to Invest in Real Estate - Ultimate Beginner's Guide to Getting Started and I am currently reading Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat as well as learning what I can from the BiggerPockets website.   

They will have those assets locked down so you can’t use them for about 2 years until you can get an appraisal to release them with your new equity.I would stay away from relatives funding.  

Stay on that path and you will be financially free (if you choose) within 10 - 15 years.

Figure out where your strengths lie and focus on that.After doing this for two decades, the biggest takeaway is to stay consistent, build relationships, and always be prepared to pivot.

Just a lot of systems, paperwork organization, and staying abreast of/within the law (required notices, addendums, etc.).3) The screening criteria we use:650 credit score or aboveIncome 3x the monthly rentNo pets (depending on the property)No smokingNo evictions, notices to comply, or money owed to landlords in the past 12 monthsProof of income and financial responsibilityAdditional:First, last, and security deposit due at signing750+ credit score does not require last month rent (helps incentivize quality tenants)Best of luck!