This simple update has big implications for property owners, allowing small repairs and maintenance to be handled more quickly and affordably.

I have an opportunity to purchase an investment property that is NOT ON THE MARKET yet.

I use QBO to keep track of my properties and do this for my bookkeeping clients also.

3) Buy a few out of state properties directly through an agent and work with a property manager to manage them? 

., to the best of my knowledge a Wyoming LLC can own property in any state, however the LLC must register as a foreign entity in that state. 

I've seen banks be very competitive with blanket loans that cover multiple properties and/or multi-family properties, e.g. 5+ units.Mortgage Brokers (obviously I'm biased) - Brokers have the ability to work with all of the above and can get you to the best lender for your scenario right away instead of having you waste your time with the wrong type of lender.

My father did this in Portland on two properties, for elderly people I think. 

Also make sure you are comfortable with some holding costs if the units don't get rented right away (if vacant).Also look into if there is rent control in the area that the property is located.

Meaning they buy the property at once. 

One year we appealed the assessmnet on 65 of our properties.