If you are open to moving close by your future investment property, I would start by deciding on states\regions that you are comfortable moving to. 

I would invest in ETF's all day over investing out of state without a property manager and on properties that need rehab.

Go in line for your city or county.  

I know some markets like Traverse City and Charlevoix are imposing STR ordinances to control the number of rental properties which is a bit concerning.

My wife and I are looking to relocate out of state by the end of the year, but would like to hold on to our 2 houses. 

So, the first question they usually ask a PMC is about fees - instead of asking about services and HOW those services are executed.EXAMPLE: PMC states they will handle tenant screening – what does that specifically mean?

So, the first question they usually ask a PMC is about fees - instead of asking about services and HOW those services are executed.EXAMPLE: PMC states they will handle tenant screening – what does that specifically mean?

Here is my situation:I've owned and lived in my house as my primary residence for 3 years.Up until the last year, I have rented out spare bedrooms (space within the living area).I got married about a year ago and my spouse has now been living in the house as her primary residence for 12 months.Question 1: IRS publication 523 states in the section under Business or Rental Use of Home, "If the space you used for business of rental purposes was within the living area of the home, then your usage doesn't affect your gain or loss calculations.

My husband and I just sold a rental property in WA state so we have about $85k to invest. 

., and some local amenities native to the city in most of our STRs.