Things to do Prior to Managing a Remote Team

Contact folks you know that have managed remote teams or projects before. Ask for their advice.
Search Google, read some articles.
Consider what has worked in-person, and whether or not it might also work remotely.
Study up on your team: make a spreadsheet, learn something about everyone
Lurk your team’s internal communications: how do people interact?
Work to find clearly defined goals, even if you define them yourself
Create a rough time management structure for yourself ahead of time; be flexible with it, but ensure things are working for you
Ease into it; take some time to get used to the new role. No need to go in guns blazing, right?

Simon Ouderkirk