Start by researching reputable property management companies that have a strong track record in the area.

I agree that you can use a Realtor with a proven track record. 

Aim for something that lets you: (1) collect rent online and automatically log every payment, (2) track repairs with vendor notes and receipts in one thread, (3) keep all tenant messages in a single, timestamped feed you can search later, and (4) spit out basic financial reports (income, expenses, year-end totals) without wrestling Excel.

Purchased a home and was suppose to be on track to get investing, however life required more finances and attention at the time so hoping this time is the ramp up phase.Just getting restarted as of April 2025, where I closed on a 2 family in Oxford where we have a decent rehab loan to bring her back to her old glory.

You're the master of tracking this stuff down.

When you peel back and try to see the real numbers for 2024 under using the previous guest tracking method (2023 method) you will see only a few percentage point drop in visitors to the Sevier/Blount County areas of the GSMNP.  

@Deserey TempletonFocus on learning loan options like FHA (3.5% down) or USDA (0% down in rural areas), and start tracking local duplex or triplex deals.

If you're not tracking and prioritizing, you're just guessing.Go Beyond the PropertyIt’s not about square footage or repairs.

Are there any private money lenders on here that use a loan servicing software that handles accounting and tracks draws?

Defining clear objectives will help guide your investment decisions and ensure you stay on track.