They have good credit and generally manage their money well.

The property was in pretty good shape, but suffered from poor management.

Also, if anyone has gone through a similar process before, what is the cleanest way to break from a management company that are currently managing several units of mine?

Are property managers required to provide leases to property owners in PA?

Lastly, find a property manager that matches what's most important to you.

Of course cash would be the best scenario and in my opinion if you have a large portfolio you really need to look at each of the assets to make that determination.

Given this I know I will need a property managner/property management firm at some point.

When looking at out of state STR Loopholes the IRS is more likely to question how you are materially participating and managing the property.

Self manage? 

If I'm trying to determine how much to rent an LTR for I'll also use Zillow to see what others are asking for similar homes and how many people have reached out & applied.If I'm trying to determine how much to rent an STR for I'll use the enemy method, AirDNA, and estimates from property management companies.