This also works well because if you choose to get a property manager later the cash flow will have been increasing so you may be able to cover the cost without taking a hit to your income. 

In your experience, which would you choose and which has had better success?

They offer a very extensive and detailed course that also comes with a exam prep package if you choose.

They simply choose to say that any amount you purchase less than you sell or any amount of cash you take out is profit first. 

The area you choose should depend on your strategy.

Also a new guy here but using a different strategy than you are, but there are so many paths to choose from!

My wife and I own property in Lakewood and have had good luck finding well-qualified tenants. 2) Websites like Zillow and even Craigslist can be good sources for finding tenants, but if you choose to self-manage, you'll need to ensure you have a good system for screening tenants and following fairhousing. 

I believe I will be choosing the 2nd option.

If they are equally safe, then I'd choose the roof that fit your budget accordingly.

If they choose not to move in, you keep the fee.