Best way is to obtain authorizations for release of credit, tax returns, assets and liabilities, then send copies or get several originals to use, mail them  and obtain information directly from the source, this cuts out the chance of fraudulent statements.You also need to underwrite the type of business, what hazards are present, toxics, fire, insurance coverage, competition with other tenants, traffic counts, environmental laws applicable to them as well as your infrastructure being sufficient for tha use.....electrical, plumbing, traps, fire codes, etc. 

If I do not hire a PM my plan is to leverage a local handyman that I connected with for repairs and maintenance and his wife actually runs a 140-unit nearby, so she offered to help me on the leasing front (meet prospective tenants for showings, etc.).I have a couple of PM's that were referred to me that seem to have some competitive pricing. 

As other people have already said, there is a lot of competition.  

@Angela Yan Yes to both of your questions = )  We plan to use it as an investment until our cash flow is sufficient to reach financial freedom, which should be in the next 2 years barring any global real estate meltdown. 

Annihilate all competition not by destroying them, but by completely outdoing and out performing them.GET A WEBSITE!

In a highly competitive market, like SF Bay area, the more the better due to a highly competitive market.

This way I get fresh quotes from competitors periodically to make sure my current rates are competitive.

I've been doing some research for rental property insurance policies and see that USAA has some very competitive rates with good coverage.

There are two ways for you to get the actual then....1) if no one is willing to bid that minimum bid (what you are already out of pocket for), then you get the deed. 2) outbid everyone else if the bid opens beyond the minimum.An observation......the bidding at these auctions is competitive, and prices approach retail, if you get the property for what you're already into it for because no one was willing to bid higher, you did Not get a good deal.  

Gordon square is already Hot with a lot of competition, but you can still find opportunities.