Sometimes a refi or HELOC can be an alternative if you want to hold onto the property.If I were in your shoes, I would start looking at a refi first and see if that would be the most beneficial choice. 

It sounds like a prudent choice to bring in a property manager.

@Matt Wan Many lenders require wet signatures on at least the Promissory Note but if yours does not, as a US citizen you could do the entire signing anywhere on the planet with a good internet connection + mic + camera via Remote Online Notarization (RON) for less than $200.If wet signatures are required, the answer then depends upon what foreign country you are in.

The city’s robust economic growth and steady population influx continue to drive strong rental demand, making it an ideal choice for long-term investment success.Best of luck!

An attorney that practices real estate is a good choice, an attorney that invests in real estate is a better choice.

Because of cost, duplexes are are a better choice and compete well with SFH and or apartments. 4.  

It can be a very good market, but the why behind your choice may help us give you better advice on how to move forward.Before realtors and property managers, you really need to meet other investors so you are making a good move by trying to do that here, but it would be better if you could do it in person.

They completely wasted my time due to lack of knowledge and organization to my file; then changed their offer as if I had no other choice but to take it.

Also, which choice is better for you highly depends on what your real estate goals are and the experience level & skillset of the specific agent.Traditional agent and Redfin Agent could essentially be the same thing in many cases.

I really want to start my investment journey but I'm not sure if an out of state property would be a good choice while renting in NYC or if we don't move, to move to a cheap market, live in the property for a bit and then rent it out.