Appraisals are done by professionals that perform a thorough analysis including location considerations, zoning, comparable sales, and any potential restrictions on development.

Finally, I did a lot of FSBO transactions years ago, and was always told by real estate agents that I was basically an idiot and would do SO MUCH BETTER with a "professional" representing me. 

Or do you hire a pool service and roll it into the rent? 

If you are hiring a GC that will be handling complex scopes of work, ask to visit one of their current projects.6.

It sounds like your finances are tight as a young professional with a family, I'd advice work on increasing your W2 income, with more education or training.

You could also convert your 401k to a self-directed IRA to invest those funds in additional rentals.You'll need to discuss more about doing all this with the proper professionals, but it is an option.

While you can’t completely control who applies to live in your properties, you most definitely can find areas that are popular with students, young professionals, families, etc. 4) just as important as finding the property, you need to have an exit strategy in mind for the property.

Its not capital gains tax at all.So, none of what you just replied to technically works.Of course, consult a qualified professional... 

Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

As that will at least help folks that you reach out to know that you are a real person, with a picture and professional bio.