Hi MattAs a property manager I would say yes start reaching out to property managers and get information about what services that's included and their monthly fee.Some property managers even conduct sales like myself and would guide you with your investment purchase.Best of luck!

@Simon Ruiz , the only possible downside to being licensed seems to be that you have to disclose you are a licensed real estate agents in any transaction you conduct.

@John Dellinger,  I don't know about your state but in state of Ohio it would be illegal only if you charge money: then you have to be a licensed broker.Your employees don't have to be licensed to conduct routine work though.

Then there will be permits that need to be pulled and County Inspections conducted, on the permitted electrical and plumbing work.

@Erik TimmermansCongratulations on jumping in.Now is where you need to be extra vigilant conducting your due diligence.  

With the Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act off the shelf id be liable for the forgiven debt if I were to successfully conduct a short sale.My wife and I both work, so with some new lifestyle modifications, we have been able to afford to keep making payments (even with no tenants).

You know, a little more professional conduct.

I am a small business owner living in Central New Jersey, conducting my business in Staten Island NY.

Developers, who do lots of market analyses, are pulling out because of local government regulations making it difficult to conduct business. 

Can’t solve for one variable with too many other floating variables.Wow that reminds me of multivariable calculus...Anyway, stick to your principles.