Max of three rental properties.

I focus on buy and hold, and currently own three rental properties in Albany so far. 

Tap into those markets.......generally your biggest wholesalers can potentially be your biggest buyers.also go to Your rent section on zillow in your area. research a couple of the owners of the rentals and reach out.

We manage a portfolio of rentals across 6 states and are looking for the best way to track accounting, run investment return reports, replace quickbooks ourselves.

I saw some interesting single family houses (newly constructed) in the range of 200-300K, for examle in:McAllenEdinburgSan JuanMercedesHow can I deep go into research about those cities and neibarhoods in term of demand for rentals and for sales?

I haven't started my investment journey yet, but I am interested in Fix & Flips and short-term rentals. 

@Ali K.House hacking in Austin is popular, with areas like Round Rock and Pflugerville offering affordability, rental demand, and potential appreciation.

I received an insurance payout for a damaged roof on a rental property and the contractor doing the work is offering a discount for cash payment.

They only know what they know and that is exactly what you are getting.Why don't you try only working with agents that either own rentals themselves or can demonstrate they understand what an investor is looking for via actual closed sales?

From my experience, starting with long-term rental properties is a smart move, especially for those looking to build wealth steadily over time.