It’s not an emotional play, it’s business. 

I discovered this AFTER I bought my first rental, and was emotionally crushed

Representing yourself on a extremely large transaction could be like shooting yourself in the foot.You will be emotionally involved and might make a decision that can cost you way more than an agent. 

It’s actually a really hard job that requires expertise, relationships with listing agents, contractors, vendors etc. and for home buyers it’s an emotional decision with a human element that AI cannot replace IMO.

I just evicted my first tenant last year and had to go through this emotional rollercoaster of not pursuing the money because I knew she simply didn't have it.

For some odd reason, emotions seem strong on this board over the terms, and many here have their private definitions.

Most people that will chime in to pick one area over another either are personally, emotionally, or finiancially tied to one of the two markets. 

Hey mate,Agreed that many PM's suck and it's very hard to find a good one.But I also believe that managing out of state is suicide.Do your best to control the emotions and to think smart in moments of despair 🙏Take the time in finding another trusted PM.Just my opinion.Much success.

Code Chapter 47 - Fraud And False Statements, which is a very boring read, unless it applies to you.Please don’t do that.Make sure your Proof of Funds source has the funds and that you are authorized to use those funds and the source will vouch for you in court.If you are going to buy “Turnkey” it is recommended you visit the actual neighborhood and actual house before closing.Things can be very different in person.Afterwards is too late.You may not like what you seeGo with the Math, not the emotions or hopes of the futureIf you are losing money with the hopes of making it up later, you should seriously reconsider.Wishful thinking is a poor investment.Interest rates are going upAnd interest rates are going down.And interest rates are remaining the same.There is no clear direction for rates and there are arguments for going each direction – buy so that your property cash flows, even if you are wrong.Ignoring your workers.Always serve your workers pizza on the job.It keeps them on-site so they don’t wander offThey will think you actually care and will work harderYou get to become “one of the boys” and they will tell you things you need to knowHmmm, out of space, but not out of mistakes. 

Other than that, "like it" is an emotional issue, and has no place in REI.If you are keeping the property for decades, and it will take decades for it to be profitable, you are losing money.