I would keep detailed records of my deals to include photos that I could use later when I am approaching a potential funding partner.

@Brooke Carlton I found a potential solution to this problem!

But I'd like to see Lynnette's projects to support your claim "the portfolio was a 30% increase in cost to the consumers" since in TN, NC, VA, NC PPAs are priced at avoided costs. 

Cost of construction is expensive and about to get worse.

If not for you and you prefer the traditional route, I would explore potential "up and coming" markets such as Acworth, Cartersville, and Douglasville, where the price-to-rent ratio is a little more favorable, and growth is apparent.

Be conservative on your rehab budget, rehab timeline, holding costs, etc.

i also help with the set up, hosting and finding cleaners  I make it a one stop shop and the process makes it seamless and a sure thing with making money and keeping costs down.  

The biggest factors, from what I can tell, are age and rebuild cost. 

Understand the fees involved and calculate the total cost for an entire year of management so you can compare the different managers.

Have you started thinking about your strategy or exploring potential markets?