Investor-Friendly Agent: Worth Finding?

[Ryan Barr]

Hello BP,

I have seen this question asked a few times, I've seen quite a few articles posted about it, too. But, because everybody's circumstances are different I felt the need to ask the community what they would recommend for my situation. 

I've been pre-approved for an FHA loan, my price limit almost certainly guarantees that I will be purchasing a duplex with it (not interested in SFH). I have multiple people that have expressed an interest to live with me on my side of the duplex, but they want to move in soon, before the start of next year. So I've got about 3 months before my guarantee of someone living with me turns into a maybe. I'm going to treat this purchase as an investment. If the numbers work for me I have the will-power to buy, but I won't put myself in a financial hole just because I want to move out of the basement.

Because I'm on somewhat of a time crunch, building up a relationship with someone who from what I've read so far is unlikely to be on the same page as me, would it be wise of me to search for, network and ultimately select an agent? I am only interested in this 1 property for the time being AND it will be my first deal; which is why I don't envision agents wanting to give me their best deals.

While we're at it, without utilizing an agent, what are some other ways you guys find deals in your marketplace? I have considered cold calling duplexes for rent in my area and asking if the owner would be willing to sell their property, as well as using the county assessor's office. 

Anything helps, thanks for taking the time to read!