Your plan to handle the strategic aspects remotely while a property manager handles onsite issues is smart, and as long as you log your work and stay hands-on, you’ll likely qualify for active status.

Many people miss out on things like this because they simply are not aware of these options.

I think you have the basics of meeting partners and people to work with in your local market and seem to be well on the way with two deals going already so big congrats there!

Try to have a sit down meeting with the HOA board which may only be three people.  

Im generally distrustful of most people/funds in the real estate world.

yes, its a people business.

It is my view it has the exact opposite correlation that most people think. 

The best way to learn about how to really invest in real estate is to read books, listen to good podcasts, and pair that with going to in-person meetups so you can see people just like you, married with 3 kids, who are making it work for them.

I already have proof of concept in Raleigh as Ive talked to multiple people (including the agent Im working with there) saying airbnb-ing rooms is a cash cow there. 

Most people assume that house hacking means living in a 2 bedroom 1 bath duplex.