The hard part is finding a property manager in rural areas , if you want to ever move.

Any other ideas in from parties in my area?

As a new investor, I would also be interested in finding someone who would be willing to go through some of their experiences with me and offer guidance on the realty market here and situations as they arise.I feel that if I can offer some value to you it would be beneficial to both parties.

(It’s even worse in this case that the check came from someone else entirely who’s not even a party to the lease.)I only allow the initial move-in funds to be paid via cash, money order, or bank cashiers check. 

The best part is, since you're living there you don't need to hurry up and fix every single issue.

The unfortunate part is that landlords are easy targets.

From my studies need 4 elements, Parties competent, able to contract, has to be for a legal purpose, consideration not necessary money( some say as little as a dollar for earnest money, don't know if that would hold up in court, and offer and acceptance. 

We have an epic problem of the whole neighborhood viewing the parking lot of my 34 unit as the party destination to be at.

Perhaps a nice 1950's built bungalow.Always hire a 3rd party property inspector to give you an unbiased feel for the home.

-ensure addition met proper set back requirements-pay permits, fines, and park tax.Depending on the culture of the planning department, you may not want to ask a third party what it will take.