Hi Nina.If I were not experienced in land lording and property manager, I would look personally to the extent you want to learn or experience property management versus hiring someone else that you trust to do the job.Yes, the cost for a property manager is important but not essential- the cost between property managers are not double or triple the cost of others (say like attorneys in some areas of law or cars). 

I moved from Florida to start investing in Columbus because of the same reason.https://www.zillow.com/learn/hottest-housing-markets-2024/

I'm particularly passionate about getting properties in the Carolinas.Outside of real estate, I enjoy cycling, rucking as well as learning how to map using a drone.Excited to learn and connect with you all!

New to rental investing so just trying to learn as much as possible :) 

How can I learn more about which option I should get into?

Excited to learn from you all! 

Learning about the seller's approach and way of thinking can help you make your negotiation plan more effective.Every seller in the real estate market is different, just like every person is different.

Will ask them to send me the itemized closing costs / loan points details etc. so that I may compare.Thanks @Jay Hinrichs for that.

Where can I learn more about this topics on saving taxes using short term rentals?

If you are expecting this person to go out and source the items and then place them in the unit that involves a lot of work, designer time, and designer energy.One way to get yourself on boarded with a designer would be to make some phone calls and see if they have openings for new clients as far as spending the time needed, because in our business time is money vs a family having their living room dining room and entry hall redecorated, where time is not probably of the essence.