Picking the right property manager for you can depend on what neighborhoods you are investing in and with what rent levels. 

@Damien L. if you don't want to create a new business entity yet then you can appropriately track your income and expenses and then use Schedule E on your regular 1040 tax form.FROM IRS.GOV WEBSITE:Use Schedule E (Form 1040) to report income or loss from rental real estate, royalties, partnerships, S corporations, estates, trusts, and residual interests in REMICs.

I did not use a property manager but I used a trusted friend to be in charge of the properties; he was able to move into the houses once they closed, take care of the little issues that needed to be fixed up and interview renters (we used Smart Move).

One of my favorite quotes by Jim Rohn is, "Your level of success will seldom exceed your level of personal development". 

You can only reduce your spending so much, I'm not sure how the job marker there works, but I'm sure you can find some way to move up financially.On another note, if you are able to increase your income, for long distance investing you're definitely going to want to know someone you trust who is knowledgeable in the market you're trying to get into.

The owner can also be protected with a deed of trust and promissory note.Good luck!

When that day happens, I'll pay things down, and enjoy the lower stress levels knowing I have high equity stakes in my investments! 

My friend has no knowledge in real estate but loves and trusts what I’m trying to make happen.

Since 4 families or above is rent controlled in Union City NJ,  can I still raise the rent closer to market level.  

You could also have them test for fine dust levels, even VOCs.