Two questions on lenders...Looking for advice BP

[Manasseh Arnold]

I am planing to purchase my first multifamily property in which i can house hack by the end of 2020, i am looking to purchase the property with a 0% down VA home loan. I am 25 and currently deployed overseas. Ive learned the first step is to build my team.

While looking to build my team Ive been networking with many lenders....

Ive been networking with Lenders in the location in which i plan to invest, investors in that area have given me referrals and on BP Ive met lenders that seem to be amazing and have already provided me with value in terms of education but they're out of state...

Question 1: Is there any implications i should be aware of when using an out of state lender? what are the pros and cons?

Question 2: How do i know which lender to go with without having a hard inquiry pull on my credit to see what value they bring to me and what numbers they'll provide to me? is that the only way to find out who's the better lender?

Thank you to anyone in advance with any information or advice.

-Manny