Go for bigger deals.  47 units will likely not support full time PM or maintenance. 

@Brian Burke I'm not a big fan of pref equity in the first place, as common equity investors often aren't compensated for the additional risk.

Should I get into contracting with a flipper or custoM home builder for 50k a year 1099 and start my own llc and be a “real estate professional” and learn the ins and outs while making less money at first,  or take a sales job 9-5 that makes 150k a year w2 and build up capital first. 

Do some research to learn how a good property manager behaves, then spend a LOT of time researching and interviewing until you find a quality manager.Remember: cheaper doesn't mean you'll make more money.Start by going to www.narpm.org to search their directory of managers.

Just got my first multi family property under contract in Houston Texas..

I've tried reaching out several times by phone, text, email with no response.

Got the first duplex by living in one side renting the other.

A personal goal of mine and one of the first steps i have chosen to achieve my greater goal is to first make sure myself and my family never need or want again through real estate and other investment opportunities.

It would depend on your financial situation but most of the time you should have it paid through the LLC as you should be able to get more tax benefits and legal protection. 

Should I get some experience from wholesaling first?