Local CPA vs Remote CPA

[Sean Yang]

Hi, I just moved to San Diego and started real estate investing last year. I purchased a rental unit and did some private funding in 2016, and I will probably expand this business by doing more deals. Now it comes to the tax season and I am looking for a local CPA who has good experience with REI. I had a great CPA on the east coast where I used to live but I am hesitant to do taxes remotely. I know many people have done it this way, but two major parts I am concerned about are 1) how do you handle all the paperwork such as W2's, 1099's business records, etc. without meeting in person? 2) does an out-of-state CPA know well of the state taxes? Please share your experience whether you prefer doing taxes locally vs. remotely. Also please recommend a local CPA here in SoCal who has experience with REI if you know any. Thank you!