Then I found the physical inspections to be easy as I wasn't a slum lord and actually maintained my units.

Shorter leases also help maintain smaller loss/gain to lease figures.

The idea here was to maintain our cash situation (we have two kids, maybe another on the way soon, and a 170 year old house) and yet enter the rental market in good position.

If they are VERY professional, they will have their processes in writing as verification that it is enforced equally and fairly by their entire staff. 6.

To me, that means a unit is in a good location, renters find the area desirable, and I am able to manage and maintain the product cost-effectively.

Don't lie to get a deal done, and always be fair to the seller.

It maintains our presence and involvement with the properties and allows us to “inspect” them without officially inspecting the property. 

My biggest hurdle right now is the property management in my town is fair at best, I have spoken to a few investors and renters regarding their experiences.

Yes, an exhaustive knowledge would be nice, but I was hoping that's what a professional forum like this could help me with.I don't feel it's fair to tell a person to exit the stage just because they're not 100% educated. 

Sounds like you might need to find a more economical person to maintain your fence!