I'm an agent here in KC, I can set you up with local contractors, property managers, and lenders.

We will be moving cross country and not involved in the management much so I don't think we can claim those losses. 

Since my main profession is office management for a residential remodeling company, would flipping to build up more capital be a better place to start?

This gives you some optionality and management over the process.

You didn't even mention tenants who don't pay rent, evictions, vacancies, HOA violations, the consistent rise in taxes and insurance, bad property managers, and the many other issues that cut into your profit. 

The cities I narrowed down.ColumbusLouisianaAreas around DallasMcAllenWhile I initially thought about some of these out-of-state deals, I've realized that managing properties remotely can be challenging.

I've managed to house hack my way to owning a fully paid-off 2-bedroom, 1-bath, 900-square-foot home valued at approximately $67,500.

I also have 5 + years experience in Property Management.

Ensure the DSCR calculations work with the high LTV and your credit score, especially if the lender won't use MTR or STR income.Lender Criteria: Some lenders won't work with new operators, some only use market rent, and others will use STR estimates or income statements from property managers with similar properties.I hop the bullet points make it easier to understand.

I talked to 2 property management companies who I should rent the house out to one tenant/one household (e.g a couple or family).