There are cons to the condo (HOA and cost as mentioned above), but I find that it is more convenient to manage remotely because all of the amenities are maintained by someone else.

At the moment, we are not talking about becoming full time real estate investors. 

Do property managers play a large role in obtaining or maintaining certification?

You cannot, according to the most recent horror story of an audit being done without professional help, count the travel time to and from your units towards your full time real estate duties.

If your buying power falls, so does your ability to maintain the same standard of living.Below is another example where Property B starts with a higher initial return, but because rents do not keep pace with inflation, buying power declines below property A. 

They are responsible for maintaining the black water drain.

The reason why is because I am considered a full-time real estate professional in the eyes of the IRS.

Bought a house on the upper range on several acres that required extra money and labor to maintain, about 1/3 of the house was hardly used, yadda-yadda.

Yes- unfortunately, pools and hot tubs, although great amenities for STR's and MTR's can be a hassle to maintain.

And I would have quick easy access to maintain and upkeep.