The purpose for this CRM is build a seamless lead generation tool that allows leads to flow directly into our platform, so property managers have a single platform that can handle lead generation, property management and accounting. 

In the most basic terms, the pros have experience renting out properties and vetting tenants, handling repairs etc. and take all of that off your plate, with the con being that this costs money thus lowering your return. 

I imagine my market would also have something to say about how I handle this. 

He also said to be very careful how the funds (last month and security) are handled during any eviction proceedings, ie be certain to keep funds escrowed properly and not used for legal costs. 

We could handle about 20% down payment from our cash reserves.   

I think one could get reasonable indication of a probable renewal by discovering if that Post Office has recently reduced its hours or is having the carrier pick up mail for the route at another location.

Don't wait until the tenant is 20 days late on rent before trying to figure out how to handle it.

They are underwriting properly, buying in good markets, and know how to handle a deal when it goes sideways (and it will at some point). 

It can provide education for the process and reduce some risk.

Now you really need to get connected locally and learn the market from seasoned investors to reduce your learning curve.