I’m still working toward my first deal too, but I’ve been learning that tracking maintenance and expenses is all about staying organized from the start. 

It is surprisingly easy to manage out of state and if you want more tips on how, check out Bigger Pockets book "30 Day Stay" on Mid Term Rentals. 

Their view is that an arcade game is cool for 10 minutes, but a PS5 is something that they would enjoy for their entire stay. 

I would stay out of really rough areas in expensive cities because those are risky and can be management headaches.

Rents generally rise over time, and while mortgage rates are high now, they won’t necessarily stay there forever.

Stay educated on Florida market trends and BRRRR success stories.Good luck!

Since you’re committed to staying close to family, I’d suggest focusing on properties that might need a little work but have potential for appreciation in your market.

Even if you stay on top of it, other stuff can happen.

I would strongly urge owners to stay away.

If you are willing to do some work, you can force appreciation, capture some equity, which boosts rent-to-value.In terms of areas to avoid, I would stay away from the East side, particularly anything along Post road between Pendleton Pike and I-74.