There is also a cost, and an opportunity cost, with self-managing versus hiring a professional manager.Without getting too far into the philosophical weeds, let's look at an analogy.Hair color, particularly for women, is a $ billion dollar industry in the U.S. and the Western world.

Last two companies I have used have been a joke, just looking to hire and pay someone who is worth the time.

You may just learn that you would rather not manage your own properties and choose to hire out to third party property management.

When I asked this, the PM is saying that if its just a matter of $300-$400 I should just forget it and its not worthwhile hiring an attorney unless damages exceed $1500.

$25/ft and $5k/each major (roof, plumbing, elec, foundation, HVAC) is a ballpark that works but you have to adjust up or down for ARV and finish and whether you GC or hire a GC.

In either case if the properties are owned by an entity and are not in your name you MUST hire an attorney every time you go to court.There are a few Land Trust ownership options.

Do you recommend hiring a property manager or should i try to do it myself? 

I intend on managing the property myself under the LLC, but want to ensure I dot my I's and cross my T's by hiring an accountant.

My question is, is it a better strategy to hire an agent to find a great deal, use online resources such as zillow or trulia, or perhaps seek out off market properties via driving for dollars/etc.?

I am hiring a REALTOR and listing the house for sale March 1, 2020.