Hiring a historic consultant would have paid for itself, doing proper work from day 1; funds for this expert must be in the budget.

When I hire them can I get a list of multi-family properties that they've sold in the last year?

@Nathan BarshingerI haven’t hired a coach, but I’ve heard great things coming from hiring one.I was just very lucky/blessed/(insert your serendipitous word here) to have connected with a really legit investor/broker from the start who has been a mentor to me.It’s amazing how many people love to help you in this business if you enter a room with the “serve your way to success” mentality.

You may just consider hiring a professional property manager.

Now if you already have a house and just wanting passive income with rentals and hiring a PM, in my opinion your location doesn't matter as you have someone else managing it so go where you want to. 

The downside to becoming your own agent is that you will have a fair amount of expenses associated with hanging your license and you will essentially be hiring a newbie (yourself). 

When I move out I plan to cashflow only $150 a month which would be the cashflow hiring out a management company and after paying for repairs and CAPex.

When I move out I plan to cashflow only $150 a month which would be the cashflow after hiring out a management company and after paying for repairs and Capex.

In such a situation, it is advisable to hire a professional property manager to manage the property for you.

It will in no way increase your tax liability, but it could be an audit flag for people not paying taxes on rental income.Also be aware as a landlord, if you hire services and pay someone more than $600 a year, you are required to send them a 1099 and file with the IRS.