The most common is leaning on your agent for their expert advice.

I’ll leave the higher-paying job solutions to the experts in that field, but I do believe both sides are important to address the larger issue.I appreciate your insight! 

You really have to be an expert and outshine the competition here.

Being a subject matter expert, not because you are forcing it, but because you simply ARE, shows through, and investors are rightfully attracted to that. 

The appealing aspect here is the ongoing population growth and other economic factors.

It only makes sense to invest remote if you have a large economic delta between where you live and the income you earn and the market you invest.

Mine was also out of state, in a town I’d never visited, and I relied heavily on videos from my agent.This sounds like a tough first deal, but it seems like you have some capital on the side, which will be useful as you face the upcoming challenges and learn from those expensive early mistakes.Regarding the subject of this post, “help me adjust my expectations,” I’d recommend assuming that; repairs will cost twice as much as you estimate, maintenance and vacancy rates will likely double from your initial projections, there’s a very real chance you may lose money on this deal.That said, there are ways to mitigate these risks by:- Keep asking questions here on BP and connecting with local experts- Stay proactive and communicative with your agent and property manager.And remember “Inspect what you expect.”Im not trying to discourage you but to help reset your expectations.

Developers, builders and other local experts with that city in their keywords will see your post and respond. 

I want a specialist that's an expert, and not a jack of all trades and master of none.

You’ve heard from several experts I respect so nothing I say below is any reason to believe otherwise.