Many of them (like many real estate agents) are not as trained as you would expect them to be. 

It’s also like PM with training wheels since you live there already. 

Make sure there is support, training, mentor programs and most of all a supportive environment. 

I'm trained as a lawyer but in your situation, I'd hire a lawyer myself.

Having been in Austin since 1998, I can tell you it is like a train that just keeps rolling down the tracks.

They have beautiful offices and camaraderie and rah rah training.

I had a recommendation from someone I know well who has around 15-20 properties in the Schaumburg area and cash flows well due to school districts, proximity to trains, shopping, etc....the obvious factors. 

Get credentials, certifications, training, etc. 

Now I just do cross training in my house with music playing for an hour.

I've been told that hard money lenders are the way to go, but just skeptical because I've been given sales pitches the last 6 months, instead of training.