Maybe to do it for a couple of years to learn, but outsource it.

Build a team internally that can handle property management or outsource it to a third party you trust. 

Change your ways or outsource to a pro ASAP.  

@Bob Wilson managing lower wage workers, buying equipment for lawn care and having a tiny little landscaping company is going to be way more hassle than outsourcing. 

New Orleans was awesome and need some new motivation and encouragement after a tough year running a remodeling crew that failed big and need to get back into the buying and fully outsource the remodel and maintenance work effectively.

Notifications, Rent Reminders, Maintenance Requests, OOoo and I forgot it also has Latchel which lets you out source maintenance by vetted contractors, also they handle your calls for you.

Or could drive for dollars and look for distressed properties mail to them Will you be using a service outsourcing the mailings or do it in house?

I on the other hand want to outsource the letters.

The easiest way to find investor friendly agents.....Outsource it to BiggerPockets.

Finally, either self manage properties at the highest level- like a high caliber business, or outsource the STR management to one of the top STR PM's in the state where you invest- which I recommend.2) Put the $500k into a real estate fund, which estimates strong returns within 3-6 years.