My local market is cost prohibitive to invest in and the thought of assembling a "team" of unknowns in another market was scary. 

Quote from @Peter Tverdov: Think at least for the text standpoint it is challenging in this market now where I know personally 3 people that have been in lawsuits with one ringing in at $500,000 for cold text messages to people that did not want to be marketed to, so to @Jonathan Greene point on that for sure.I think that cold calling is a true skill that really no one (or 1%) will end up doing, and I 100% agree that VAs do not do it right..

The duplex is rented well under market rate ($600 on each side. 2-bed apartments), and the fourplex has two rented units on the lower half well under market rate ($475 on one side, $600 on the other also 2-bed apartments). 

You’ll pick up so much just by listening to people who’ve been through the highs and lows of the market.

Unfortunately there competitiveness in the market and cut throat antics give the other offices (company) a bad name. 

For example, if you’re investing in residential properties on the southwest side of town, eliminate property managers focused on commercial properties or other areas.Research CandidatesSearch Engines: Be cautious—Google rankings often reflect marketing, not quality.Yelp Reviews: Read reviews critically; tenants, not property owners, typically write them.

Only in this house your mom happens to be the tenant. 

Could anyone share advice or insights on the market here?

I would select one marketing method and become an expert at it.

Property managers and agents can be really helpful as well as they’ll give you insight into the market and could have some opportunities for you down the road.In the meantime, try researching the areas you're interested in.