Self-managing isn't for everyone, and I respect that it worked better for you.

Solution: You are not going to like what I am going to say here, but it really comes down to your self-discipline, which is why this is probably the hardest aspect of achieving your goals.

I am a very communal, tribe before self type of person even when I have such little to give I offer what I have for the good of the team.

I’m self managing myself but the tax side of it is a little confusing to me but I’m recording everything involved as far as maintenance, traveling, expenses etc. just want to know what some people would do in my situation or what to I can benefit from come tax season  @Angelo LlamasI recommend that you find a real estate accountant to help you understand and prepare your taxes.Bigger Pockets is a great place to find a real estate tax accountant. 

Perhaps I make 5-10% if forced to sell if I’m lucky, break even at worst.2) I’m VERY glad I chose to invest in my local market (and not OOS), because I know which neighborhoods to buy in, and I also can self manage, which saves a ton of money and I am able to develop local connections, which helps me buy at a discount.

Wife and I both have an 800 credit score and plenty of income with a 19% DTI ratio. 2) Do you recommend that as a first timer I actually do go with a higher down payment product as I learn?

its funny how this changes with time and the market on BP  if you asked this question 5 to 7 years ago you get drowned out with the cash flow is the ONLY thing and appreciation is for gamblers my self I have always been about making appreciation games in RE.. by either value add building a new product or buying foreclosure and flipping or lending money and getting instant 12% plus returns . 

If you’re self managing and personally moving and wish to keep self managing in your new location. 

Are you planning on doing the maintenance your self?

Congrats - huge advantage to agent investors that can save on those costs and self rep