It doesn't do any good to invest in a strong market if you don't have anyone to manage it.

.- VA: with the remaining $200 or so, I'd invest in a VA to either help you make calls or manage your database.

We manage property here and can help you come up with a realistic rent amount before you buy.  

Another option, that I say good results is listing in zillow, at the time it was free to do it there.In my case, I have negotiated with my realtor a lower one month commission to a 75% of the first rent, and he manages all the calls, tenant verification, and showing.

They have a special meeting just for landlording that meets once a month and is run by a local Property manager that operates over 400 doors.

Later this month, I'll be visiting the city for a couple of days and would love to meet anyone who can help me kick off my investments - agents, property management firms, wholesalers, and contractors. 

I self manage my units, which I love doing, and therefore my tenants have my phone number for when there is an issue.

Your manager documented everything in your statement. 

Property Management business- created after acquiring about 20 properties.

I've been in real estate development a long time, and most of the folks I know doing it either grew up in the business, or most of them know it from working for a larger builder, i.e. as a project manager, forward planner, acquisitions, and eventually went out on their own.