But I've seen smaller landlords get into major trouble because the person they hired wasn't properly managing the property and sometimes engaging in illegal activities.

We decided to initially rent for our first year in NY while we get to know the new area before making a major decision.

Right now there are 46 2-4-plexes for sale in Plymouth County at $680 or less, excluding short sales.There are 151 in Bristol County, the vast majority being in Fall River and New Bedford. 

The major employers in Pierce county are the Military and Healthcare - neither of which are at risk of picking up and leaving.Depending on the asset and submarket, some people think their property is worth more than it is (and they're getting it) so sit and watch for the right project for you.I disagree with Mike (above) on two points.

The market is at decent price right now(compare to other major US), but getting higher every year. 

I'm looking for advice on how to best approach this seller and also not make a major mistake for my family. 

Majority buy for life time.

@Sunil KapoorThe major component to discuss: how passive or active do you want to be!

The main reason is rent growth has exploded in the three major urban cores Oakland, San Jose and San Francisco since 2010; averaging 6.25% YoY according to RealPage. 

Majority of sfh renters are expecting the convenience of having them.