Looking for Lenders/Agent suggestions. Westchester NY

[Peter Freleng]

This will be my second post on bp. I may have posted in the wrong section first time.

I’m looking to get pre approved for a loan for my first home purchase.

I’m at the very early stages of investment. But I’m looking to get into this building that is next door to me in Cortlandt manor NY. Its two units on one lot and has been abandoned for at least 6 months. I looked into the property and the owner was back on taxes. So I imagine they just want out (what I’ve learned on bp is they me be a motivated seller). One unit is actually in good shape and the other is gutted without siding.

I’m thinking of partnering with my landlord who lives in the house behind me. He works in lumber and built the house I’m currently renting. We’ve gotten along and I think he would be pretty instrumental in getting it rent ready.

So I’m posting again in hopes of some direction and hopefully a response.

I was thinking my first step would be to find out how much I pre approve for. I was going to contact some small banks and some credit unions. But was also wondering if anyone uses any good private lenders in this area? Is this a logical first step? See how much I can afford? Open to any suggestions where to ask. I believe there is a window to shop around so my credit doesn’t get slammed at each lender

Next I was going to try and contact some agents to get some comps on what that property might be worth? I have an idea based of convos with my landlord. And I have an idea how much it would rent for because I’m renting a similar size next door. But would be good to have something more concrete

From here not really sure what to do. I know how much I would be willing to pay to make it work for me. But I doubt it will sell for that low. Really depends on comps etc.

From there I was going to contact owner see if I cant get their selling number. I imagine it will be high. But I’m thinking of trying to offer to payoff closing fees or back taxes depending on original offer to try and help everyone

I’m very new to real estate investing. I am in the process of getting my real estate license but not far enough along to feel confident what I’m thinking makes sense

Any and all advice welcome

Thank you