One thing to consider in your search is a lot of the locks require a network connection and a smart hub to allow remote access.For my home I am using a Schlage Connect locks and a Wink smart hub - I occasionally have issues with the remote access, so I would avoid this combination.  

I was using a VA loan.

Does anyone know what forms I need or how to start this process without using a lawyer?

And since I would still be using a title company I assume I can count on normal closing costs on top of it?

The investment would be repaid using a standard mortgage promissory note at whatever interest rate is acceptable to generate income for the SDI/401(a), but the income from the property would be my cash flow. 

On the next  go around consider using a lender that actually sends your information through the underwriting process and gives you a commitment letter instead of a preapproval letter.

Of course this wouldn't be the case year after year as Hopefully you have a good tenant and just go the set rate but in some cases you have the option to increase more using a fixed term.  

The daily charge should be high enough to encourage using a hotel as a cheaper option. 

Can you recommend a good agency or warn against using a bad one?

It's a lifesaver if you can't/won't get into the habit of carrying and using a digital camera all the time