I have around 20-30k that I can let go of semi-comfortably and that can be enough in the small market.

Prioritizes maximizing cash flow, potentially with higher risk or management intensity.Remember, cash flow isn't the only factor!

There are a lot of ways to crash and burn, so increasing the odds of succeeding long term should be your highest priority. you can always sell your local assets once you're comfortable managing rentals and ready for a market that better-suits your criteria. btw, kudos for being self-aware of your limitations.

You wonder what you can do to maximize your savings and have it grow faster.

If you are up for it, you could consider renting out the bedrooms in your own unit for maximal rents. 

Lastly, keep an open line of communication with your manager so they feel comfortable bringing up concerns or bigger repairs.

@Mordechai ChaimovitzGreat points made above along with what @Daniel C. said referencing @Tom Shallcross's post on another thread.The context and variables for each individual investor will vary but many people are comfortable with getting a 2-4 unit that will reduce their out of pocket expense compared to their previous rent with the intent to do rehab and raise rents over time.

Now going the outsourced route, yes there is ways a person can design that "manage the managers" to be least or maximal impact and requirements.

There are good deals to be found, and people should invest where they're comfortable. 

I hadn’t thought about the risk of expanding my portfolio by having multiple properties over leveraged, although that seems to be a growth strategy that many use,  I’m not sure it’s one I’m comfortable with.