I agree with many of @Alan Asriants' points, especially when considering OOS Sec. 8 investing.A lower price point or smaller investment doesn't always mean low risk.House-hacking locally could be a better transition depending on your goals and situation.

I understand Philadelphia requires a local property manager. 

I work in IT at a local boat manufacture and my wife works in the office of a flooring company in Longview.  

Quote from @John Paul Palace: Our plan was to invest locally, however our market here is tough.

My partner and I are looking to get our next rental (currently have one in a more local market that has a property manager).  

This is the value of having someone who has local experience.The company you said, if they are some "remote" company, I guess they could provide the things that you need and save money, but I would hesitate to feel confident if they do not have regional experience and that you would be left vulnerable if issues arise with the design later on. 

One was conventional financing and the other was a portfolio loan from a local bank here in Hawaii, I also did a lot of research into DSCR loans during my search.I'm also an agent here on Oahu but focus mainly on Property Management, at the brokerage we manage roughly 50 units that are a mix of STR, MTR, and LTR's. 

I’ve lived and invested in Texas and think it is great.But your local market anywhere in the U.S. is the best place to invest.  

@Kuba Rogut options:1) In-house maintenance team2) Out-sourced local maintenance team3) Outsource to Latchel, Porch, etc., 3rd party companies4) Mix of the above

Hey @Ingrid Hussey, we’d also recommend QuickBooks—specifically QuickBooks Online—so you’re not limited by Mac or PC and can access it from anywhere (not just your local system).