There are also many online calculators you can use if you do a search for them.

They cover the counties with online access to public records (over 2200 counties). 

It will be easy for you to check if they paid on time, as you can check instantly online.  

@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.

If you want to send me a DM I can send you a link to run an easy online quote

I responded to an online job posting for a Marketing Assistant.

Networking with local real estate groups or online forums could help you find recommendations for PM companies that have a proven track record in Birmingham 

I volunteer and host an online group for our local chapter of the Real Estate Investors Association (REIA).

You don't need to buy a car dealership, it can be a side hustle or an online business.If you try to get more rent than fair market, you will rent to desperate tenants, who got rejected everywhere else.

While you are figuring it out and/or deploying it over time, US Treasuries and certain CDs are paying 5%...and 4% for certain online savings accounts.