Also, is the only way to invest in other states by hiring a property manager, since its not possible to be there physically?

I know I annoy them sometimes but it is kind of like your doctor pushing you to stop downing burgers and fries because it is affecting your physical health. 

Get the lock that also has a hole for a physical key  and then have a good ole fashion lockbox with the key in it as a back up Example of yale with key Dont get one like this without a keyGOOD LUCK!

After a brief engagement, they understood never to come around that building again.I yanked a few others out, with less physical force, but I knew the risks.

The site asked for a physical address to do business within Michigan.

They have 24 hour help that does most of the physical work.

I have had guests change their physical move in dates at times, and I keep everything the same, for the most part.

Still learning the ropes here so mostly looking for any general pointers on the challenges investing in a different market than where you physically are comes with its own challenges.

The physical environment isn't for everyone, it certainly is not Miami Beach, but it is very Big Sur-esque without the price premium.

With that said, for house hacking, you would obvioulsy need to physically relocate if you were to go this route (whether to Albany or any other similar area).