Since you'll be occupying it as well, it will all depend on where you feel comfortable living.

Hi,For an owner who is out of area sometimes and wishes to self manage when in town, would a property management company be comfortable managing only for a part of the year?

@Joe F.You should consider making an offer now on the property at a price YOU are comfortable with.

Other than the problems I knew and was comfortable with (including retaining wall, plumbing, electrical and other TLC work etc.), I found out that the house has sunk 2-3 inches in one corner (mainly due to poor drainage and that retaining wall giving up... both linked).  

Here are the things I will continue to research to become more comfortable when I do decide to buy my first property.

I have a bunch of questions, but will start with this one as until I have cleared this up do not feel comfortable making an offer on a house.I have been reading posts galore and nearly ready to buy my first property and start my real estate investment journey.

Narrow your focus and learn what numbers you need to see to feel comfortable, but don't make things harder than they need to be.In terms of portfolio building strategies (regardless of which route you go - MFR, turnkey, self-managed SFR) @Kenneth Reimer's suggestion of learning about 1031 exchanges is great advice.

Even in the areas I invest there are certain areas that I will stay away from, but for the most part I've spent time in these areas and am comfortable with them.

You can more actively and comfortably engage with other agents, growing your network and your sphere of influence.3.)

If you are comfortable scanning / emailing your documents as well as having meetings via phone and/or Skype then there are more options for CPAs who work virtually and work exclusively with real estate investors.