If it's feasible I always recommend to start investing locally and sourcing the deals, contractors and if interested manage yourself.

As far as getting best rents, I've seen professional photos make a huge difference and depending on your local market placing it all the typical property sites like Zillow, Trulia, etc.

Despite mortgage rates being double what they were two years ago, the overall borrowing environment remains favorable for state and local entities.Key initiatives driving this surge include efforts by entities like the Michigan State Housing Development Authority, which recently launched a $425 million bond sale aimed at providing affordable mortgages to over 2,700 families.

I started local because I was more hands-on and wanted to experience the process.

@Tim SwierczekThis must be local to you.

If you want to use a local company to manage your rental instead of self-managing, I can put you in contact with a great team!

Take a class on Financial Planning at a local Junior College. 

Choosing a market for your first investment should be as close to local as possible or you won't learn anything and will be too hands off.

Not only is the new owner taking subject to local law, but taking subject to means current owners cannot conduct sham sales in order to evade tenant protections. 

@Alex Rivera Jr.Depending on where you live starting out with a house hack is a great option locally.