While living in it for the first year or so learn.

I live in Baltimore, Maryland.

I would suggest emailing or calling the US House of Representatives office for the congressman/woman for the district your rental property is in or the district where you live. 

House hacking can also help you offset your living expenses and gain experience managing a property.Also, building a strong foundation is crucial to you success.

@Jay DeckerThe great thing is that you live within Washington State which does not have a state income tax.You may be required to file a non-resident return with Ohio and Iowa.

That can work if you live 5 minutes away. 3 hours, not so much.

I live in Northern NJ and as I mentioned the barrier of entry for me in NJ is too high.

It's tougher to get cash flow upon move out these days but if you're patient, willing to do some work, or live in lower cost/fringe areas you can make it happen or at minimum put a serious dent in your housing expense which is still a win in my opinion compared to renting or buying just a primary home.Also if you're a bit short on cash, make getting a seller credit part of your financing strategy.

@Justin R. we have live reports for our owner clients on their portal that cover this.

All the homes I buy are in f'd up areas that I would never live in.