Proper time to bring in the PM to potential properties?

[Wesley Mullen]

When is the proper time to bring in a PM to evaluate a potential property? After it's under contract or after it's been closed on? Is there a conflict of interest if you use an agent not affiliated with the PM or would it be better to find an agent that is already affiliated with the PM so they can evaluate the property quicker? I had looked at a potential property before, and when inquiring if the PM could go through a walk through with us, he said he couldn't because we had already talked to a buyer's agent (unknowingly through Zillow). We bought our first property without an agent (off market, knew the seller). Now that we're searching for more properties, I'm wondering if it's best to locate a good independent agent vs someone that the PM recommends (figured there was commission involved). Still the PM has been good, so if he has an agent he trusts, it could strengthen the team? Currently we're working a direct mail campaign, but would still like to know options as far as an agent if we need to go that route. TIA! -Wes