That said, if I could somehow find a proactive PM who would take care of my property better than I can, and whose motivations are aligned with my own, it would definitely be worth it.  

Currently sending 12K mail pieces/mo- professional typed letter with logo, BBB accreditation logo, personal picture, full color; in pastel color A6 invitation size envelope handwitten looking to and return address with live, pre-canceled stamps sent via bulk mailLists are a lot of the targeted motivated lists:water/sewer lien, bankruptcy, 60/90 day late, NOD, divorce, probate, etcGracias

After I complete this morning routine, I usually feel super motivated, energized, and clear-headed and proceed to go crush it in the gym, class, and work.

Would using them for finding motivated sellers be considered self gain if I'm helping them liquidate their property?

Darrin, It's so funny you mention that...of course being a newbie, one of the things going through my head is, "Sooooo...I find a motivated seller....I get the house under contract.....then someone...maybe someone will buy it???"  

That said, figure out the managers motivations and see if it possible that they would want to stay on if you like the job they've done. 

Obviously if the Google Voice is going to be a turnoff they probably aren't super motivated.

I wanted to make it long to judge their level of motivation/pre-screen them.

If you have to replace it later, it will be at a very inconvenient time, it will disrupt the tenant, and you'll be what I'd call a "motivated consumer".  

Please feel free to contact me with advice or words of motivation for becoming successful at real estate investing.