You could even do word of mouth about the property you are about to buy and will have for rent in two weeks.

For instance, I self-managed while living in the property, but found it more difficult once I moved out so I hired a PM and couldn't be happier with the decision.Lastly, I don't think you need to spend over $1m for a 3 / 4 family. 

Through online research and word of mouth I originally contacted 12 PMs to interview and select the best for our first rental in Baltimore City, Maryland.

I haven't seen the study, so that's just word-of-mouth data. 

That price would be normal in my area for a yellow pages/radio advertising type company.If I hired a one or two person licensed outfit it that works by word-of-mouth reference and never advertises it would maybe be $250 total.Regardless of the price, I recommend you get a disposal with the allen wrench fitting to "unstick" it if it clogs instead of just a local reset button.Garbage disposals are my most replaced items.  

Hi @Liz Murphy@Tucker McCarthy took the words out of my mouth (keyboard, whatever...).The only other thing you'll need to do is request a Federal EIN; also simple.I don't see why having it in an LLC would help, but I'm not an atty.

Account Closed   Also....congrats on taking the step to put your money where your mouth is and actually fly out to the area you are thinking about investing in..............Show's you are SUPER serious and I'm sure it will work out great for you.

And word of mouth.

Sep 2015 - Single Family home - Off Market/Word of mouth - As we remodeled project #5, the neighbors tipped me off about a meth house in the neighborhood that was going to be for sale soon. 

I’ve got 5 that I manage remotely couldn’t be happier