So unless you're that Unicorn that figures it out you need competent boots on the ground or need to be here yourself.

A PM is the boots on the ground who knows these areas and can help you understand what you are getting yourself into before you get too far into the deal. 

We probably are already making some big mistakes, like seeking education through those extremely expensive packages with boot camps etc.

A small leak around the pipe on the roof will cost you $1000 for the roofer to spend 20 minutes putting in a boot. 

Do some research and know how everything works then find great vendors to have boots on the ground.

They need to be your boots on the ground and eyes in the skies.

With that being said - you're 100% responsible for vetting your team - that means ensuring folks are licensed, insured, and can provide recent references.Once your realtor is in place and able to give you the key insights to your market - you'll need a boots-on-the-ground so you can get into properties and make informed decisions.

I work for an acquisition company in NC, so I work with a lot of investors, one thing I'm trying to do for my out of state investors is create "boots on the ground".

Nothe person that I have found will go through the pain in the *** of an eviction process, is usually the personality type that I do not want to do business with (combative personality) 

If you select a growing area and have reliable boots on the ground (cleaning and maintenance) you can successfully self-manage & operate on the STR platforms.