I’ve been in the STR game for 6 years, managing multiple properties, and here are some of the tech tools that have been game-changers for me—both for evaluating and managing properties.   

@Micah Huffman unless you are going to commit to learning some basics about being a landlord AND are willing to commit at least 2-4 hours each month managing a Property Management Company - it's probably best you sell.Otherwise, it's highly likely you could lose more due to bad tenants and management.

I'm meeting with a couple agents i was referred to through my network and am wondering what critical questions I should be asking them to understand if they are the right partners for me in this market, especially considering I will be managing this investment from the other side of the country, and what info I should be prepared to provide to them.

If you're willing and able, I do recommend the "house hacking" strategy which is just a fancy name for buying a rental property and living in one of the units, because you'll get very favorable financing - an owner-occupied fixed-rate 30-year mortgage.I'd also say, analyze that property as if you won't live there and it's a pure rental, and make sure the property is still cash flow positive if there's a tenant in your unit because then you'll know if it's actually a good investment.And when you analyze it, include payment of a property manager in your #s because if you don't, and doing so would make it go cash flow negative, then you've just bought yourself a job because you literally can't step away from managing it without losing money.

Also, any advice on managing budgets for PPC in the real estate sector would be really helpful.Thanks in advance for any insights. 

If you’re not using a 1031 exchange, you’ll need to account for this.Reinvestment Risk: Entering new markets and managing multiple properties may present challenges, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the areas.Alternative StrategiesBefore committing to selling, consider these options:Leverage the Equity (HELOC or Cash-Out Refinance):With a 3.1% loan, selling might not be the best first move.

@Tove Fox - Residential Real Estate InvestingPros:Lower Entry Costs: Easier to get started with less capital required.High Demand: People always need homes, making demand relatively stable.Easier Financing: Mortgages are generally easier to secure with favorable terms.Simplicity: Easier to understand and manage, especially for beginners.Flexibility: You can use it as a personal residence or rent it out.Cons:Tenant Turnover: More frequent turnover leads to vacancy and more management.Lower Cash Flow: Income potential can be modest compared to commercial properties.Emotional Buyers: Residential prices can be influenced by emotions, leading to price volatility.Maintenance Burden: Landlords often deal with repairs and maintenance, which can be time-consuming.Commercial Real Estate InvestingPros:Higher Income Potential: Stronger cash flow and higher returns are common.Long-Term Leases: Tenants often sign longer leases (3-10 years), reducing vacancy risk.Professional Tenants: Business tenants tend to take better care of the property.Valuation Based on Income: Prices are based on the income the property generates, not market emotions.Shared Costs: Tenants often cover property expenses like taxes, insurance, and maintenance (via triple-net leases).Cons:High Entry Costs: Requires more capital or partnerships to get started.Complex Management: More expertise is needed; you may need a professional property manager.Economic Sensitivity: Commercial properties are more sensitive to economic conditions.Challenging Financing: Securing financing can be harder, with stricter terms and higher interest rates.Zoning and Legalities: More complex regulations compared to residential properties.Key Differences:Risk: Residential tends to be lower risk, while commercial offers higher rewards but with greater risk.Management: Residential is easier for DIY investors, while commercial properties usually require a team.Scalability: Commercial properties are easier to scale, offering more potential for significant cash flow increases.

@Basit Siddiqi Have you considered getting an assistant to manage all of those things rather than a property manager.  

I’ve been in the industry for several years, and my work has given me a solid understanding of property systems, maintenance, and what makes a home a great investment.I’m now looking to expand my own real estate journey by learning how to acquire and manage short-term and long-term rental properties.

I have 3 homes managed by a property manager.