Finding trademen and contractors is much tougher if you're self-managing.

The BEST contractors are in high demand, so are picky about doing bids and taking on jobs.

If you own real estate in a self-directed qualified account, the 1031 exchange is unnecessary.

STRs work best in tourist-heavy areas with high demand, while LTRs perform well in markets with stable economies and diverse job opportunities.

I want to remain local in NJ or at most drive down 1hr to PA (self-manage or, last resort, hire a PM)However, I must also consider maintaining reserves, a safety net for my primary home, and an emergency fund.It's just hard for a new investor now :(

If you seem like you are just gathering information to self-manage than they will likely blow you off.

As for the first investment, I highly recommend starting small, like with a turnkey property or even a 2-4 unit multi-family.

Some will tell you to make the change anyway but that seems a large risk in this high interest rate environment.

Key Questions:Would it be more financially prudent to sell the rental property and pay off a chunk of my high-interest primary mortgage (7.375%), and use the remainder for a fix and flip?

Buy low sell high..