It's just math, not hope.3) You mentioned that in the markets you invest in, most properties are bought with cash. 

I did do my homework and found them to be legit.

Simple math will always win.

@Yongming Huang for the inference of why do real estate agent's "make so much" let's follow the bouncing ball of the math to find out what "so much" actually is. 

The way I think about outsourcing any marketing is by using math to really determine the right budget to be successful. 

Before you buy a property, you should do a LOT of homework to verify you can find a decent property manager in that market.

You learn more from not-so-great deals than from home runs.Improving the asset and getting higher rent is certainly an option, but I would really look at some 10 year math to help you decide.

Specific areas may not have one company that manages and specializes in STRs, so it is best to do your homework on that area before purchasing if you are not interested in self-management.

Don't take advantage of someone's  poor math skills by saying "instead of $600 once a month, pay me $300 every two weeks."

Do your homework.