My biggest challenge right now is finding a property management company that offers rent-by-the-room leasing services.

Instead of stressing over timing it perfectly, focus on making sure the deal still works even if rates shift.Since you’re buying in Norfolk, check if lenders there offer any investor-friendly incentives.

I would like to discuss more about the services you offer. 

Some may offer a flat fee instead. 

City-Data and Census.gov are solid resources, and sites like Rentometer can give you a good sense of rental prices.After that, I narrow it down to neighborhoods with strong fundamentals—good schools, low crime, and convenient amenities.

Owners mistakenly ASSUME all PMCs offer the exact SAME SERVICES and PERFORM those services EXACTLY THE SAME WAY, so price is the only differentiator – so, they often select the first PMC they call or that calls them back!

BiggerPockets is full of resources designed to help you along your journey, whether you are just getting started or a seasoned investor.

That doesn't surprise me about NJ, knowing what I do as a person who's lived in the tri-state area for 25+ years, especially since becoming a father and coming to truly appreciate what NJ has to offer offer.

We wasted several thousands of dollars with them until we realized that they weren't able to handle the project...After we fired them they turned around and offered me a job ;>) - I politely declined as I don't think the industry is setup to help us. 

The price was lower than anyone else offered.