I tried self managing my first year, it didn't work out great as I rushed and rented to the first person I found.

Personally, with one of the rates that I have on a different duplex - I would consider doing a refi if rates dropped 2 points because I know I'd be cashflow positive and could hit the LTV with updates that I've done to it over the past 6 months 

You buy because its a "deal" not because you like it yourself personally. 2.

A queen bed is 5'x6.5' which wouldn't leave much room for a person to walk on either side, a night stand or a dresser.

Recommend only one person notifies him and not two.  

As a side note, all my tenants have my personal number.

Also, consistent tenant guidelines can help you make decisions, so you are both fair and preventing unwanted tenants reside in your properties.Balancing Privacy & Profit: I think this is a personal preference and depends on everyone's individual circumstances. 

Personally I avoid them because I have a problem with other people telling me what I can and can’t do with my property.

If one person is out for any length of time, we usually have coverage for that person. 

I've personally sold 3 properties with them thus far and have high praise.