Cramming real estate to meet agent in a week

[Sunny Kuo]

I'm visiting my dad for two weeks after four years apart, I intend to look into vacation rentals in his area for future investment considerations. The dream would be to set up a system for him to retire on my properties and take minimal stewardship roles in my name.

Dad suggested that I line up some agents to look at properties that I'd like to acquire and operate; I've been on Zillow/Trulia for sale price and Trip adviser and AirBnB for Rental rates doing comparisons. I've used search bar for area analysis on Bigger Pockets and found two forum posts about researching a area to anticipate market trends.

My most urgent task is the homework needed to schedule and meet one or two real estate agent in my dad's area. I'd like to arrive prepared and asking the right questions to understand that specific area for future investment considerations. I also would like to compensate the agent for their time as I'm just starting out and can't offer them business until I've matured sufficiently.

Thanks in advance for reading and replying.

[Jimmy Murray]

I think it's a nice thought that you'd like to compensate the agent. Essentially I think you should approach it as an interview. See how much the agent has to offer in terms of coaching.

I'd look for an agent who can teach me a lot.

Also, I think you've done a fair amount of homework up front. Now it's just a matter of finding your "Farm area". Deciding which neighborhoods are best for you investment objectives.