When I changed companies, the newer ones would not support the idea, insisting we kept doing things the old way...paper, duplicitous Excel lists, and missing info.Just as a note, I have not kept up with newer PM apps, but for instance Yardi and competitors are all based on accounting practices, with double entry systems, forensic researching capabilities, and other elements to make the money trail rock solid.

Also, when considering whether to accept Management of a property, I insisted on at least a partial walk through of the property with the owner, and a full discussion of our Standards, Processes, and certain documents.

She insisted it is not an issue, she just needs to lockdown a home as the area is in high demand.

Then, buy similar properties.Many years ago, I had a client who insisted on buying a property with a pool.

That market is more stable and I have contacts there, but again out of my price range.Well, if you insist on using a bank's money and paying bank's fees and paying bank's interest rates, you're probably right.

The fact that you caught all of this before closing is a win, even if it doesn’t feel like it.A few thoughts, rapid‑fire:You’re right to insist on aligning closing with vacancy.

There are some people who keep insisting to be leveraged and not really even entertaining the thought of having a paid off rental.

It's always the seller insisting on an unreasonable list price in my experience, never the agent.

If you are insistent on just the maintenance function Property Meld may work. 

I'll add one angle specific to out-of-state ownership in Ohio: make sure your management agreement includes clear legal compliance provisions.Ohio has some landlord-friendly aspects, but there are specific requirements that trip up out-of-state owners:Key Ohio-specific items to confirm your PM handles:Lead-based paint disclosure (pre-1978 properties) - Ohio takes this seriously, and violations can be costlySecurity deposit accounting - Ohio requires deposits be held separately and returned within 30 days with itemized deductionsCleveland-specific ordinances - If your property is in Cleveland proper (vs. suburbs), there are city rental registration requirements and inspection programsEviction timeline management - Ohio's process is relatively fast (30-45 days typically), but only if done correctly from day oneContract provisions to insist on:- Written confirmation they're handling all required notifications (lead paint, security deposit interest if applicable, move-in/move-out documentation)- Proof of Ohio real estate license (required to manage properties for others for a fee)- Clear delineation of who handles legal filings if eviction is needed - some PMs coordinate but don't file; you want to know upfrontOne practical question to ask during interviews:"Walk me through how you handle a tenant who's 5 days past due on rent in Cleveland - what's your exact process and timeline?"