To maximize your investment, use financing options like FHA or conventional loans, analyze deals based on cash flow and cap rates, and network with local investors through REI meetups and BiggerPockets.Good luck!

You could arrange to have your cleaners accept the deliveries at the property or hire a local handyman to do same and even assemble furniture.

What local bank or credit Union (Navy possibly) do you recommend he goes with? 

Popular markets often include beach towns, mountain retreats, and areas with strong tourism.It’s also important to research local regulations, occupancy rates, and management costs to make sure the numbers work.

Check into your local regulations.

As you're just starting out in Austin, focus on learning the local market, particularly areas with good rental demand and lower entry prices.

Quote from @Kyle Barnhart: I live near Phoenix and looking to invest locally.

You can find a lot of meetings on the MAREI calendar, both MAREI's meetings, local landlord group meetings and a few other meetings hosted by our members. 

You can also contact a local alcoholics anonymous or other organizations and let them know you have space available for anyone living sober.

What makes you an expert that the unit is in a great location & condition and the market is hot, relative to the property manager?