My cash flow numbers are still positive and would still be positive if I used a property management company but we will do it ourselves at the beginning.

As some have said, be detailed in your rental contract. Leave no room to interpretation or errors. This can come by looking at rental agreements in the area or hiring a real estate attorney to help you draw one up.

Go through the proper tenant screenings. Good property management companies will take care of this. But make sure your PMC knows your expectations.

Set aside money for vacancies and maintenance/ capital expenses. That’s not your cash flow. Leave it.

I’m putting some smart devices on my home to help me. Like a smart water meter to detect leaks. My tenants are paying the utilities but I’m trying to make sure water doesn’t become the end of me.

Lots of people talk liability. Do you own the home under your name or an LLC. That’s up to you. Just make sure your insurance is good all ways. Understand liability and where you need to protect yourself.