When looking for a PM, consider these criteria:1) the experience and credentials of the broker who supervises the company as well as the lead property manager2) the services they offer and how they line up with your needs and expectations3) the use of technology to make their job and yours easier 4) if they have a landlord-tenant attorney on retainer to help guide them on legal issues (not to mention the creation of lease agreement, landlord forms and notices, etc.)5) their process and policy for a) listing, b) application, c) tenant selection, d) routine inspections, e) maintenance services, f) property and tenancy update reports to you, g) lease enforcement policy, and f) move-out process.6) property owner reviews (caution: you can't always rely on Google reviews, because they may not reflect actual quality of the company, but still) 7) beneficial programs for both owner and tenant 8) a property management agreement that would indicate they know what they're doing and have the experience to know what matters in a PMA.

They would furnish it, enforce strict rules, and cover issues under $600.I'm curious about increased foot traffic and liabilities—if something major happens to a guest, would I be responsible?

The rules are very strict. 

They claim to have done routine inspections, but I was never informed of this water intrusion issue.

My goals with REI is to generate as much cashflow and appreciation as possible, so I can get out of the 9-5 routine, build wealth for my future, and have as much time for myself as possible.Is Southern California a tough market for beginners?

- Establish consistent routines

@Patrick Boutin  yes  Sean O'toole owner of property Radar up above on this thread mentioned it and cited the CA bill number you can look It up.Oregon and Washington have very very strict ones..

Screen your tenants strictly and put good people in there.

DSCR Loans are mortgage loans secured by residential real estate turnkey properties strictly used for a business purpose and underwritten primarily based on the property.

If there are any foreign entities involved, there are very strict reporting requirements on reporting said foreign entities.