If I have the high bid I break in at closing ( never have seen keys at closing ) and see if  I really won or lost.

The key though is making sure you are looking ahead with your numbers, otherwise you will get stuck. 

If so, I'm curious if you are pleased with the services they have provided as your property managers, and if you are "surviving" with the low returns that their turn-key solution offers. 

I prefer the beginning of the month because there's an entire month to notify tenants and transfer files, keys, etc.I agree with giving it to them certified mail, sending an email, and maybe even a phone call.

Sorry for the caps, it's just clear when I don't write in caps, key information is missed.   

As far as neighborhood guides, I don't know of one source, but here are a couple of resources that might be helpful.  

The key is moving fast when they deals show up as they don't come along every day. 

Submarkets are the key.

Are there any missing key points? 

How to start depends on your key resources, time and effort, Knowledge and experience, and financial resources.