Also providing money to back additional investments.Long term goal is to grow to about 20+ units to provide enough income for early retirement alongside my company paid pension. 

This is one large water heater tank (75gal)  in the basement, alongside a boiler that feeds the radiators throughout.

I would definitely start by writing down your goals on paper along side with a list of niches and strategies. 

I'm currently 55, and I did the rehabs myself --some solo or working alongside hired labor(cleaning, painting, installing counters, flooring)  some tasks I had done by skilled tradesmen (toilet removal, heater installation, drywall).

However, because this is primarily a cash flow investment, it seems fair that I could take income alongside the silent partner (once we reach a certain percentage of return). 

Got it.Since the complex isn't providing the cleaners, you could always look into if there's a local cleaning service that also provides linens or works alongside a linen service.  

If you’re on a month to month lease, typically your landlord only needs to give 30-60 days’ notice.Moving residences costs money, and you’ll need to find a deposit plus up to two months’ rent in advance for a new property, alongside the fees listed below.

Search for "Addicted to ROI" on Meetup.I also host a big lunch & networking meetup in Bellevue each month alongside a couple of awesome investors. 

I can see you using the VA Renovation loans (some say they have spotted these alongside the unicorns and bigfoot) to get into a single family house that needs work, get the job done right by experienced contractors, live and enjoy the rehabed house for a year, then sell for much higher than you originally invested in.

yes, i highly recommend a reputable management company, even if you want to manage yourself one day to save the management fee, the best way to learn how is to work alongside them and learn from their experience.