CPA & Attorney criteria - location vs. specialty?

[Lisa Frantz]

My husband and I have been real estate investors for a while, but only have a handful of properties -- titled and mortgaged in our own names and managed ourselves.  As our portfolio grows we are considering forming a legal entity and our tax situation gets more complicated.  In shopping for a good RE attorney and a good CPA, one question we have -- we live and work in one state (Maryland), and invest in others (PA and western NY).  Should we be looking for a CPA and attorney that are based specifically where we live or where we invest, given variations in state law?  Or does location not matter as much, so long as deep specialty is in real estate?  Any opinions on this would be greatly appreciated.

[Russell Brazil]

CPAs can be located anywhere really. One does not need to be state specific. What I would suggest us using a CPA well versed in real estate investing. Thus I do suggest you contact @Brandon Hall who is located in the DC/Baltimore area.