Maybe starting with a property close to you is a good building block...

This is something a property manager will have access to along with accounting software for managing the tenants.

You could also add in that you will be allowed access for showings, for example, each Saturday from 1-3PM, beginning July X, whenever you return from your vacation, but if you're doing repairs after they leave, anyway, I'd usually just let them go without disturbing them, especially if they have pets, then put a sign in the yard while I'm working on it.    

Many of the good PM's will run monthly cash flow reports or give you access to their Property Management software. 

These have good access to Ferry to SF and BART stations.Are these good investments long term (10 years ) ? 

@Allison MeggisonI would strongly suggest working with a local real estate agent, as they will have access to a great deal of information that will be of use to you (comps, previous sales, rental rates in the area, etc.) when it comes to apartments. 

If it was up north and they were told they were responsible for snow removal would it be expected that you draw them a map of where they have to shovel and include every basement window, vent, oil tank access point, etc?

Now that I've built up some investments in a non-qualified account, I'm looking to diversify a bit into RE and have access to a home that I could use for that potential.We're debating about making the plunge into RE.

It’s easy access, with bare walls and an unfinished basement.

Is that with the purpose of clearing up access to use the VA loan again?