When folks decide between self-managing and professional property management, they often use the "all other things being equal" fallacy. 

Be sure to tune in to the BiggerPockets podcast and attend your local REI meetups to build up a strong network.

Obviously there are many areas where a professional is needed but there are also plenty of thing's most people can tackle on their own.CapEx.

To know the areas that you're not from, network with locals and watch what sells and how quickly to see how hot each area is. 

I am looking to purchase my first rental property this year and would love to network with people in the area.I am looking at SFH (3 bed, 2 bath) as well as duplex, triplex, and quadplexes.

If you get audited good luckNot a cpa or tax professional just telling you what has been relayed to me by several CPA’s

We have a vague idea of what we're looking to do, though it's so early in the process we are amenable to change.We are both medical professionals (doctor + veterinarian) in our early 30s, no kids.

I decided to attend still solely due to the networking possibilities.

Even if i didn't do the loan for that client because it had to go FHA, I think it could be a good way to open up networking, a larger pipeline, and have a back up source or income.

Readers are advised to seek professional advice.