Consider consulting with a real estate professional or financial advisor who can provide personalized guidance based on your specific situation and goals.

Would I have done this deal earlier in my investment journey? 

Im excited to start my Investment journey and doing so by learning from like minded people doing the same.

should I pay a professional to do the work or do I attempt DIY?

Accountants are in such demand, that the best are not even accepting clients half the time.The other problem I see often with accountants on here is that they specialize in larger investors, and have really high prices when you as a smaller investor do not need all the bells and whistles.Another thing I see is folks thinking they need to have a tax professional in their state.

I have met with sea wall contractors, done a full home inspection and met with another structural engineer and seawall professional that did an inspection and performed soil density tests around the property.

I am just starting out my real estate investing journey and wanted to introduce myself.

Sounds like you're on the right track with your REI journey.

My cash-on-cash return is less than 2%...and that’s without professional management.

IK that sounds like a cope out answer but saving is part of the journey of REI.