It seems to be cheaper than a manager and plus they allow you first right of refusal whereas most property managers will choose who ever they want. 

It’s ok if you choose to buy something that is not quite perfect, as long as you decide it’s what you want. 

In the process on meeting with 2-3 now to choose who to work with.

My wife and I are thinking about doing mid term rentals so a buy and hold strategy may be the path we choose.

Even if your town or jurisdiction has regulations, the HOA can choose to pass rules that are more restrictive.

I have heard of instances where one (the borrower) is allowed to choose the appraisal company or put in a recommendation for one which the institutional bank may honor, and then the person already knows someone there, that they have gotten to know with time from other projects, and it's not unnaturally inflating value but favoring a good one to keep the reoccurring client.  

It's important to choose that one and commit to using it.

It's important to choose that one and commit to using it.

You will nitpick all new tenants and never choose one.

Also, if you choose the rental portfolio route, be realistic.