I had worked with my handyman once before with mixed but overall positive results, and right after closing I was so pumped to get started I agreed to work with him even though he was working on another large project (and doing a poor job, at that).

Rich dad poor dad is what started it all for me.

That, combined with you saying you have poor credit and minimal cash on hand, makes your planned approach an uphill slog. 

@Jeremy Flores house hack is your best bet.

As others have said carpet is certainly your best bet, if with the under lament and quiet rock on the ceiling about the sound will travel. 

Would love to talk/meet other New England RE investors and would welcome any YT channel recos - been binge watching Biggerpockets, Dion Talk, April Crossley, and Lumberjack Landlord, already read Rich Dad Poor Dad, Millionaire Real Estate Investor, and currently listening to One Rental A a Time.Open to your feedback and guidance.

Plus keep in mind, if this is your first time out, they will want to cover their bet on you.

Your phone is likely your best bet. 

Desperate tenants who are poorly qualified will promise you whatever rent you ask, and then they can't afford to pay it once they're accepted, so make sure the rents are realistic for the median income of the area.

Sounds like my best bet may be keeping what I have!