As you said you're just starting out, I think you would be wise to establish a base from which to then branch out. 

hi what is an ideal purchase for you in real estate (numbers wise) and  exit strategy of it, and what is your short term and long term goal?

Some very good points brought up above, especially @James Wise.

@James Wise and @Ryan Moeller If the business was simply just property management then, sure it would make sense to charge 10%, cause you want a decent profit.At the same time, it really depends on the neighborhood and property to determine how much work will be involved.Beyond the initial process of finding a tenant, which if screened well should be there for a while and not cause any issues.

Since you will not need to start making money right away you could look for different management companies and offer to work for free for a month or two, and then they will hopefully offer you a job (it would be wise to work something out with them ahead of time to manage expectations). 

Credit wise you need a score in the high 700s to begin.

I’d follow it closely, and if/when a good deal compares you’re way, be prepared to act (that means getting heloc/2nd loan completed ahead of time.)6- if you want to comfortably live off your RE, you’ll need more properties, so leverage used wisely is the best path that you have. 7- you may not be cash flowing a lot  now, but rents are growing fast in nyc (relative to fly over states), so be patient and give it time.

Its not wise to try  and run game on a Bank who will have more money for legal fees than you do.

I am unsure of the best way to go about it education/course wise.

We will all do this if the top item on our HILP is threatened.To solve the problem you have, you would be wise to identify with your wife what her HILP is.