So focus on lead generation.Once you have that covered, then yes you do need to have a bit of insight on the workings of the transaction.But all this should be easy to figure out the moment you keep commonsense in play.Start with getting in touch with a wholesaler-friendly attorney for your closings (if you are in an attorney state), and build a relationship with him (that is also what I did)..He should guide you along the way as you go.

I also did a trial of buildium and liked it, but I felt rentvine was a little more user friendly.  

I have friends up there! 

Since you’re open to out-of-state investing, there are definitely some great opportunities out there.A few things that helped me:-Finding investor-friendly agents/property managers who actually understand rentals.

I like to sleep with my phone on do not disturb 😊

I was in the middle of connecting with folks that biggerpockets found I was also friends with on Facebook.

100% for 6 months is a lot of money.c) I and friends have quite a few Real Estate contacts in California.

I have a couple of friends who have several rental units in Gettysburg and said the rents are good and he has many professionals who stay for a good amount of time and pay on time.  

They have close family in the area they invest, perhaps even living in the investment property itself like their child who is a college student and rents other rooms in the house to friends, or their sibling or parent.

Rodrigues' recommendation may change this), but my next question would be, are there any cities/markets where 1 of the following are true: 1) You have family/friends that live there, 2) You travel there frequently (either for vacation, work, etc.), or 3) Somewhere else you've lived before AND know the area well?