What professional should I start with?

[Brittany C Spragins]

I am ready to purchase my first investment property but am nor sure which professional to begin with.  Do I try to find a lender first to see what I qualify for? Do I start with an investment friendly realtor to help give suggestions on what lenders would be the most understanding? Is there another professional I should seek guidance from first, like find a contractor or management company?  Also, my husband and I both work W-2 jobs and have good credit, so I'm not concerned about obtaining credit to purchase, just not sure the limit.  We live in Raleigh, NC and the market is skyrocketing; if I can find a deal, I will need to move quickly and want to be ready with professionals in place to help.  Thank you.

[Jonathan Greene]

I would get the lender first so you know what you can afford and then determine how much of that you want to spend. Simultaneously, an investor-friendly realtor in your area who invests, but also does market business so they know the other agents and the landscape of the towns you are most interested in.