If it's above my level of ability to repair then I have a list of individuals who are reasonable priced and licensed and insured. 

Very low prices on houses (you'll make your money on buy-and-hold there, not property appreciation), lots and lots of renters, and a level and type of crime that you may find acceptable.

I also believe that PMs require a certain level of hands on management to make sure things go as expected with tenants.

I try to get as much info as I can about the owner so I can determine the level of care and the quality of services he implemented.

I've also listened to several podcasts that have provided awesome information to take my business to the next level.

Depending on your experience level though it might make sense to flip 2-3 houses first to understand how to deal with contractors, lawyers, lenders, agents, etc when the stakes are lower.Even though apartments are commercial properties, getting some of the basics under your belt will result in 2 key benefits:You will have a good idea of estimates for normal repairs to the units and can better understand what properties will take once you purchase them to bring them up to your desired standard for the area.Your potential investors might have more faith in your performance if you have some other investing experience under your belt - might even want to consider getting 1-2 rentals to help with this "resume building" if you are going for a number of investors that may not have personal knowledge of your capabilities. .

Depending on the level of finish you want, I have gone right over wall paper in the past.

In fact the homes on both sides of this property do.Its a fairly large house 3 bdr 1.5 bath on the upper levels. 1600sfThe basement has a .5 bath and is about 900sfIs anyone familiar with the process for doing this?

The great thing about a mobile as opposed to a stick built, is that if the home has settled or is no longer level, get under there and shim it up.

The inventory is now down to a more normal level and I spent a great deal of time in 2013 planning my business next move(s).....which led me to concentrating on flips.