Where do I start when buying out of state property?

[Eric Gesswein]

Im in California and I was wondering where would I start when looking to purchase out of state properties? I was looking in the AZ or NV areas. When I contact people regarding a mortgate rate,they ask if I have a home picked out. If there is a home I'm interested in, they ask if I'm pre-qualified for a loan. When I contact property managers, they ask the same questions as above. Etc. etc. The same question starts every conversation.."Do you have this yet?" Im just curious what would be step # 1 when trying to purchase out of state? Also,should I start an LLC in my home state or the state Im planning on buying property?
Eric