Everyone has different opinions on this and it really comes down to personal preference.

As an investor, you'll need to wait until this period expires before your offer will be considered.Additionally, Freddie Mac may require proof of funds or a pre-approval letter with your offer, and they often prefer cash offers or conventional financing.

I had generally been just saving my expenses in google sheets to further organize later and receipts in google drive since I can more easily access and upload all my paperwork from my phone and access my drive from anywhere.I have and use excel for some things, but I generally would prefer something more geared towards real estate. 

They are both good; personal preference.  

Is there another mountain area with much higher cap rates, even out of state but preferably in the upper western US?

I’m a CPA and my have no preference, but only recently signed up to Xero just to have that ability to offer to a client.

Most of my funds are in flips though, and small faction in stocks; i prefer some diversity, and cryptocurrency is another option to branch out too.

Many landlords also prefer to rent only to Section 8 tenants, so it can be harder for voucher holders to find the right house unless it’s specifically listed as "Section 8 welcome."

Quote from @Himateja Madala: @John Underwood with 6bed/6 bath I am targeting more multi family travelers who prefer staying together.

You'd be amazed at what a toy truck can do.