Managing your own multi-family property in Chicago

[Elizabeth J.]

My husband and I are looking to purchase a multi-family property in Chicago.  I plan to be the property manager, though we no longer live in the area.  I plan to coordinate all of the maintenance/upkeep and have people in place to handle cleaning, snow removal, emergency repairs, routine maintenance, etc. by the time we purchase the building.  Would appreciate any tips on anything to consider in managing one's own property and/or any suggestions on good companies to assist with this.  I would also like to get the tenants on a direct deposit system for paying rent.  Have any of you offered incentives to tenants to do this and if so, what type of incentive (e.g. rent reduction, etc.) would you suggest?  Since we don't reside locally, I would rather not worry about tracking down tenants for rent each month.  Thank you!!