Look for duplexes that are going to need some rehab work so you can add some sweat equity and bring the value up as well.

Having a nice spread by the river in Washoe valley would be nice.

Otherwise, I think it is a good area to buy, it should cash flow as an LTR on day one (unlike other places nearby) and it is a nice community. 

I actually had come across your post below in the Events forum and thought to myself it would have been nice to attend that to see first hand a local flip and talk shop about the process.https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/521/topics/1215682-chec...I am happy to hear that someone with your experience in the region feels that Westchester is a market with some potential.

Tone, pace and the exact words matter.

I'd venture to guess your tenant is a criminal or drug addict of some sort.There's some truth in your thought but he's actually a really nice hard working young man. 

Like @Kyle Mccaw noted there is significant value in goodwill and I imagine you profited nicely over this pleasant long term relationship. 

It may sound nice to pay a 6% management fee but the extra fees can add up to be more than the other company that charges 10% with no additional fees.

As I’m saving up for my first investment, I would like to learn more about the industry - and it would be nice to earn some income while doing so.Are there any specific skills or knowledge I need to secure a VA side gig? 

It is the most popular software in the industry and all CPAs know how to navigate it which is nice.