We are finally starting to see indications of some deals in the Smokies. 

Talk to a local realtor who works with investors to see if $2600 is realistic for rent and who you'd be marketing to-likely a smaller tenant pool.Most people who rent fall into different categories-those who are just starting out and saving to buy their own home, those who move around and buying doesn't make sense and those who will never buy a home (either can't save the down payment, can't get approved for a mortgage or plain and simple don't want the responsibility of owning a home). 

You could even look into companies like PadSplit that help with renting by the room scenarios.

They charged me around $1,400 for a 30-yard dumpster with 6 tons of waste, but I found other companies, like Steel City Hauling, that charge less than half of that.When I called Affordable Dumpster Rental to complain, they threatened to send my debt to collection.

they came and started, getting 50% complete and have been finding excuse after excuse to push us back.

Get the trash company to send a dumpster, rent a truck to get the supplies (or pay to have them delivered) and you're set. 

There were damages and loss of rent.One of the local utility companies verified there was no transfer of service.

It's no guarantee but it's a good place to start.

You can get that experience by working for a commercial real estate developer / owner / operator So, there's no way I can start on my own?

@Chano SocarrasIn our experience, the #1 mistake owners make when selecting a Property Management Company (PMC) is ASSUMING instead of CONFIRMING.