I wanted to start by house hacking but (1) I am not allowed due to strict HOA rules and (2) my city isn't as desired as the next city over.

I think you have to have very strict payment policies (i.e. - zero tolerance for late) and enforce them to the letter. 

. $0 for normal or routine maintenance2. 10% of the rehab ONLY if it is over $2,500.

Not sure if that worked or not, so then they tried to implement super strict rental regulations. 

Some areas have strict rules or require special permits.

There are very strict regulations but possible. 

strictly read, the city of Austin requires a permit to spray foam insulate around an outdoor water hose bib...because it improves or repairs a structure.  

Some base their decisions strictly on numbers and do not care about the area, while others are okay with a lower yield but focus on the city and even specific neighborhoods.

I’m strictly residential with 27 buy n hold SFR.

Let's explore some effective approaches for managing investment properties:With a Property Manager:Screening and Selecting Tenants: Entrust your property manager to handle tenant screening, background checks, and selection, ensuring reliable renters for your investment.Rent Collection: Property managers can ensure timely rent collection and handle any late payments or lease violations professionally.Maintenance and Repairs: Delegate routine maintenance tasks and repairs to your property manager, who can coordinate with contractors and vendors to keep your property in top condition.Tenant Relations: Property managers serve as the primary point of contact for tenants, addressing their concerns and ensuring a positive rental experience.Lease Enforcement and Evictions: Trust your property manager to enforce lease terms and handle the eviction process if necessary, following legal procedures.Financial Management: Property managers can handle financial tasks such as budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting, providing you with regular updates on property performance.Without a Property Manager:Self-Management: Take on the responsibility of managing the property yourself, handling tasks such as advertising vacancies, screening tenants, and collecting rent.Outsourcing Specific Tasks: While not hiring a full-time property manager, consider outsourcing tasks like maintenance and repairs to trusted contractors or service providers.Utilizing Technology: Leverage property management software and online platforms to streamline processes such as rent collection, lease management, and maintenance requests.Establishing Clear Policies: Set clear policies and procedures for tenants regarding rent payments, maintenance requests, and lease terms to minimize conflicts and misunderstandings.Regular Inspections: Conduct regular inspections of the property to identify maintenance issues or lease violations early on and address them promptly.Building Relationships: Maintain open communication and positive relationships with tenants to foster a sense of community and encourage better care of the property.Whether you choose to hire a property manager or manage the property yourself, effective communication, attention to detail, and a proactive approach to property management are key to maximizing returns and maintaining the value of your investment.