How to pick the best tax professionals for my goals?

[Matthew Terry]

Hello BP Mates,

Last October we acquired our first SFH rental property and now it is time to understand and execute a tax strategy that aligns with our goals and maximizes our ability to invest in the future. We are fired up to build our rental portfolio and this will be the first time we look for a tax professional to guide us as opposed to our normal Turbo Tax form filling.

Do most CPAs have an understanding of taxes related to REI so I should start my search with simply online reviews? Should I be searching for CPAs who brand themselves REI experts? Are CPAs typically also tax advisors I could spend a few hours with them explaining our current situation, investment strategies and goals or do I need to find a tax advisor and a CPA separately? I want to build a relationship with tax professionals and develop a long term partnership, but will they take me seriously as a new investor with a single SFH?

Any guidance would be most appreciated.