Has anyone used a real estate investment company to find you a deal?

[Joel A.]

I will soon begin my search for the right investment property and had a few questions about how im considering going at it. Im looking for a buy and hold (SFR or duplex) with cash flow that fit my criteria. (50% rule)

I found a few Real Estate Investment companies in my local area who say they do the following:

- Setup customized search using your specific criteria.

- Compare the best deals, we'll provide you with important information about the property, its neighborhood, its demographic, and its past, present and future evaluation.

- Arrange for inspections and repairs. We'll attend property inspections. We'll review all reports with you and make recommendations for renegotiation of price or other concessions based on these reports. We also make sure any and all agreed-on repair work is carried out.

I mean its basically just a realtor agency that with experience in REI. Im guessing the only cut they make is from the buyers agent fee but im not sure.

Anyhow, has anyone ever used an agency like this to find your deals and has it been successful?

It sounds like most agents are weary on putting "low ball" bids for investors and that is part of my concern. I mean in order for me to find a really good deal, i need the ability to place a bunch of low offers. Offers that meet my needs. What im afraid of is that these types of companies are really NOT trying to get you the best deal but just an okay deal, one that they wouldnt purchase themselves.

Does that make sense?