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.

Of course, all channels can work.. from seller financing to foreclosures.. but from my 30+ years in real estate, I’ve found focusing on cash flow analysis tends to pay off more reliably.So here’s the big question that might help steer your next steps.. what do you think would make landlording less stressful for you.. a property manager, or maybe a smaller property until you get more comfortable?

Partnering with local experts who understand zoning, permitting, and market nuances can help you avoid costly mistakes and maximize returns.If you're in a high-cost area, out-of-state investing can provide access to markets with better entry points and higher ROI potential.

In this option your agent would either get paid from you directly in your closing costs OR from the seller via seller concessions.like Russell said, if you are comfortable with the transaction and understand what you are signing and you don't need things explained and you have connections with inspections and title companies then go for it.

Quote from @Michael Challenger: I have no qualms with hard money lending, but I need to learn more about the process and structure to these for typical deals so that I am more comfortable and in a position to reduce my personal risk and risk to investors as much as possible.

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.

Company is called Comfort Capital.

It may be tempting to treat them as one property and do what is called "cross collateralization" in order to maximize the amount you can borrow.

This allows new investors to gain experience while minimizing risk and maximizing returns right from the start. 

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