Once you have your goal figured out it will help you dive what areas make sense for your goals and budget.

How does agent commission work now? 

Despite wanting to handle it a few other ways I reached a small cash settlement with him to drop it.

Personally I would want to manage the rental myself at least in the beginning to make sure you get good ratings.

You'll want to make sure it cash flows each month.

Provide clear instructions on where and how to pay to avoid confusion.Recover Security Deposits: The current property manager is legally obligated to transfer tenant security deposits to you or the new management company.

But don't let them know it.It amazes me how many of our members at MassRealEstate dot net have an Asset worth $300-500k Rent it for .5-1% of value and hardly pay attention to it, yet chase a tenth of a percent in CD rates;-)

Ask how many units they manage and how much experience they have.

Watch the house to see if they abandon it, which they probably will.Buy some books and educate yourself on how to be a better landlord.

I don't want to refinance because my current rate is under 5% and doing so ruins the cash flow I've got right now.