North Mississippi- Realtor Question

[Judson Thornton Tucker JR]

Hello all,

I am new to Real Estate investing and currently researching areas for my first Buy and Hold opportunity. I have a potential lead from a friend of mine in North Mississippi. He has been a part of several wholesale deals that sound promising and has put me on his list. 

Before he comes to me with a property to look at, I want to make sure I am prepared to do the necessary diligence and make a decision. Since I am new to Real Estate, I am not going to be very knowledgeable on the actual transaction that a Real Estate agent would normally execute. Is it wise for me to find an agent in that area that can assist with the actual buy? I am not sure if anyone has used an Agent to assist with a wholesale deal but figured I would get some advice.

Thanks in advance!