Off market deal structure and process?

[Elise Asanias]

Hi to all Canadian real estate investors in the forums here! I am a new real estate investor based in Vancouver, BC Canada, looking to buy my first property. I've been walking and driving for dollars in a few neighbouring cities, and identified some addresses I think could be deal prospects. I plan to give them a call once I can track down the phone numbers.

My question is, what things should I be doing to prep before I pick up the phone? Like in theory, if a seller was open to negotiating an offer or structuring a vendor-take back, what comes next? For example, connecting with a realtor to assist with structuring the deal, or leaning on another professional to prepare paperwork.. Since this will be my first deal, I'm looking for any advice and tips on what I should be doing before and after I connect with the seller, to make things go smoothly in case I get a bite!