Cart Before The Horse? What Order Do I Go In?

[Andrew Larson]

Okay, so I feel like I am beginning to get a grasp on the scope of professionals I will need to be connected with before I really dive into my first deal. My question is two fold: 

1) Who should I have lined up before the deal and who can I wait to find/ reach out to after I have begun the process? I figure Lawyer and Investor friendly Real Estate Agent are a must for before beginning the acquisition process (contacting sellers with offers) but should I also have a property management company line up and in the wings? How about contractors? Can they wait until I bid out a property and I know I may get it (maybe waiting until due diligence to find one) or should I have everyone line up and ready all before I really dive in? 

2) If I should have everyone lined up before anything moves forward, what should I tell them if I want to use them but I don't have an actual deal and/or I am still just searching for that great deal? 

I am reading my butt off in both books and forums and I now am beginning to realize I know just enough to understand how much I don't know yet. 

Thanks in advance for the great advice and helpful answers. 😁