Steps to Complete Before Reaching out to Agent

[Kristofor Rahmas]

Hey everyone!  Just have a question on starting out.  I've read alot books and been scouring this site...the books all cover all the different team members for investing...however, I am still not clear on order of engagement.  What should be done before I reach out to a Real Estate agent to start running through deals?  I don't want to waste anyone's time if I'm not prepared.

My job is completely remote job and i have no roots or family and move around often. Right now I'm in a very rural area but won't be here long after i find my market. I am looking to find a cash flowing market to find a duplex or triplex i can house hack. From there, i'd plan to pick up a few more properties and build a team (and getting to know the area) during the FHA year requirement before moving to an area i'd actually want to reside. From there, i'd continue investing in my market from afar....maybe eventually look to diversify to other markets.

My question...who should I engage before actually starting the search with an agent? Should I get pre-approved? Can the bank be local to me or should they be in the market i choose? Should i get a CPA first? Some one to help me set up LLC? Real Estate Lawyer? Who should be located in the market I choose and who can I engage remotely where location is a non issue?

If anyone...especially someone nomadic like me...can give me a timeline of when to engage each team member and which should be in my market, it would be extremely helpful!  Thanks so much.