With the competitiveness of the market, buyers do approach listing agents directly, so this is working for some of our sellers (though again, I think they'd often be in better shape with a buyer agent commission offer).

Recommend finding a niche if cash flow is what you're looking for so that you can go around competition rather than through it. 

I went with them because no training and heavy supervision is required from me which saves me a lot of time.

It is like having heavy weight champion on your side. 

These kinds of deals have become more and more competitive over the years.

These cities tends to command quality tenants and they have great schools.In regards to the FHA loan, The FHA 3.5% is very difficult to get accepted contract in this highly competitive Red HOT Real Estate Market across the major metros in the country.I will suggest you get a 5% Conventional Financing.

It is critical that we set our rent rate competitively to secure a tenant within a couple weeks.

To have the edge over your competition, you will need to have the funds ready to go, know what to look for yourself, or have an investor agent who specializes in finding good deals for you.

Alternative engineered materials that are competitively priced with typical 2x4 stud walls framed 16" o.c. would be Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs).

Did a heavy renovation, furnished the property, and self manage as a short term rental for more cashflow What was the outcome?