I would take a look at their financials and see how many units owe money, what their aged owner report looks like (how many units owe over 30 days), ask what their collection process is, ask who their property management company is and check out the manager's reviews online.  

Not necessarily as good as it sounds due to having to meet the standard deduction, which is around $12k or $13k for families, I believe, before any real savings kick in.

I believe that just based on everything I've also studied about marketing, and why I decided to use my small saving of $3,500 to take the plunge.

My advise.... stay focused, save some money, and INVEST in real estate - long term buy and hold is the path to real wealth - take your time and set your goals on buying your first rental property - as an owner occupant if possible.good luck

Standard ones are available online.

Also, save save save!

We have 35k in savings. (20k of which is from an estate) We were told, to our surprise, by the town housing department that we have a 3rd unit registered.

You have 2k saved up so you're good.

This would save you more than earning on flips/Buy&Hold and then spending it on the rent.

The wisdom, as you are learning, is the realization that money saved by doing it yourself may be less valuable than the delays that happen when your do it yourself.