I will say though with this last renewal period some insurers are actually starting to lower their premiums… a little, after the Florida legislature made policy changes that favored the insurance companies… so that is at least a small step forward.  

I'm sure a more modern solution like Swiftlane will come at a price, but it may save you from some headaches with building security and tenant retention.No matter what you decide, congratulations on the 8 units thats awesome! 

If you just hire the cheapest or first PMC you speak with and it turns into a bad experience, please don’t assume ALL PMC’s are bad and start trashing PMC’s in general.

We are a couple in Southern NH getting started in our real estate investing journey.

It’s not to say there isn’t opportunities in Youngstown but if you’re starting out I’d recommend starting somewhere close.

These detailed records, (many copies of which had to be scanned & emailed to them), saved us from any 'taxable consequences'. 

I ask because I'm considering leveraging my background to start something like this for myself and wonder if there's already something sufficient out there.

Start cold calling brokerages

If not, how do people typically get started with their first deal?

IE FSBO, off-market deals..The deal I'm referring to was an expired listing, though if it was on-market I can still make an offer and state in writing that the selling agent isn't the dual agent and will not be representing me; this will typically save the seller 3%.