Payroll, bookkeeping, etc can mostly be done remotely.Here is a great list of questions to ask a potential accountant:http://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/51/topics/70447-questions-to-ask-a-cpaAlso check out the www.NAEA.org page in your search.

Why not off load that to your book keeper?

Hi, I am the bookkeeper for an investment company and we flip houses in PA and NJ. 

I do the bookkeeping but use CPA's for tax preparation.

Many property management activities, such as bookkeeping and arranging for repairs, do not generally require licensure.

We finally went to Appfolio, which is a great and easy platform to use and has saved us money from our bookkeeper, and we have figures in real time.I've heard Buildium is also a good platform.

I'd like to get these initial expenses/costs entered into the system and manage bookkeeping from there.  

I'm looking to assist you in any and all things in regard to your RE business.Quick qualifications:- Licensed CPA in NY- 2 Years Experience @ Ernst & Young- 3 Years Experience in Property Management- Website Design- Master's Degree in Accounting from Binghamton University- Phenomenal Excel & Bookkeeping skillsWould absolutely love to meet up/hop on a call and get to know each other.

Example - you will do the bookkeeping at $20 per hour.

@Pamela BoddingtonMake sure you hire a bookkeeper who is familiar with how to do the books properly.The output of the books is only as good as the quality of the bookkeeper.