This may be unpopular, but I'd say focus on earning more for now, much much more.

I intend to focus on garage apartments or separate rooms in private properties.

And as for distance investing, check out "Long Distance Real Estate Investing by David Greene" It's a really good book sort of focused around SFRs but the same principles exist with multifamily.

I'd focus more on the kitchen if either that or the bathroom.If you've never screened before, you can use a background and credit check platform through your local LL association or any number of online sites like cozy or smart move.A realtor/PM will most likely charge 1 month's rent to place. 

In this case I'm specifically focusing on SFH or small MFH, out of state owners, both owner-occupied and rental properties.Thanks all!

I had terrible credit when I was younger, it's a roadblock for sure, but one that isn't too hard to beat with a little focus and tenacity.

I would say time block, and focus on lead gen.

However, if you want to focus on doing the work for this first deal, outsource the accounting would not be a bad idea (see #2).5.

I'm currently focused on 2-4 unit, buy & hold rentals in the Dayton, OH area, with the ultimate goal of building an income generating portfolio that allows me to say goodbye to my career in financial planning & analysis.BP is an incredible resource, and I look forward to connecting with other like-minded individuals! 

Our strategy would be focusing on cash flow and buy-hold for mid-long term.