Some of the ones I like:Walk though the lease with potential tenants BEFORE they sign, e.g. go to their current residence. 

I'm a lifelong resident of Boston and I'm looking to start investing in the next year or two (not in Boston, but surrounding and more affordable areas) but I'm trying to figure out a strategy and plan.

Or you used to reside there?

I see you live in California though, so you will want to talk with an attorney to see if you are subject to tax in California or CA laws by virtue of being a CA resident. 

It's a smart move to buy a duplex, triplex or fourplex and make one unit your principal residence - this way you only need a minimum down payment.  

My grandparents own (2) properties, their primary residence (paid off) and a rental property on the same street (has a bank loan with substantial equity). 

Bulk Sales provision should be in every single NJ contract where the owner is engaged in business and not selling in the regular course of business or a primary residence.

Home price increases are sharpest in these markets, while dwindling housing inventory in the lower price classes could be discouraging people from buying.”Here are the basic stats on single-family home sales for February 2018 for the City of Austin and the greater Austin area:About the local economy, Mark Sprague, state director of information capital for Independence Title, said, "While wages and jobs in the Austin area haven’t increased, the local economy remains strong and continues to attract new residents and potential homebuyers.

As @David Chwaszczewski said there's a big difference in mileage/rate for primary resident vs investors.

Send the resident tennat and their handler a rent increase notice according to your state regulations.