There are some great replies in here already but I would also want to suggest the use of virtual management software as a supplement to traditional management as well.There are some powerful software tools out there that essential manage all of those units from your computer screen (collect rent, process maintenance tickets).Hire a local handyman and they can act as your boots on the ground in case of notices or emergencies.This may help you save a couple hundred bucks down the road from the rising prices that management companies are charging now. 

Thank you for this virtual conversation.

Virtually every listing on the MLS I expect to decline in value in the short term.  

The potential downside is that the work is virtual, so they may not be familiar with good contractors in your area, and given the low price point I’m not sure how responsive they’ll be (I plan to try the service out but haven’t yet).

Hey! My name is Esther Rosenberg. I bought my first investment property in April. It is located in Wilmington, NC. After overseeing the full renovations and design of the property, I put it up for rent as a short term...

Happy to help you Iris....lived here in the area for about 40 years...selling for 20+, broker associate, investor.Please realize there are virtually no foreclosures or short sales at this time.   

(Walk the area virtually with Google maps?)

 :)PM me if you would be interested in a virtual mentor/mentee relationship - glad to speak with you.

There are many other virtual VA sites out there to choose from, you should be able to get this marketing done at a reasonable cost.

If you connect with some people virtually and then go to meet them, it could be just the thing to make good connections or find missing pieces.