What should I be asking agents as an out of state investor?

[Jared Goldwasser]

I live in Los Angeles and am looking to purchase my first investment property this year -- interested in single family or duplex units. I am targeting Cincinnati, OH as potential first market because I grew up not far from there and have at least some connections. I'm meeting with a couple agents i was referred to through my network and am wondering what critical questions I should be asking them to understand if they are the right partners for me in this market, especially considering I will be managing this investment from the other side of the country, and what info I should be prepared to provide to them. Thanks in advance for any help!

[Blake McWilliams]

Hey Jared!  Not all agents are created equal! I'll start there!  For some reason, beyond my comprehension, most agents are not investors.  Even the best retail agents still lack the operations and understanding of what makes a good deal, especially if they do not invest.  

My number one question to any agent would be do you invest in real estate.  From there I would ask about their strategy and potentially their hardest lesson learned.  As the conversation progresses you will be able to tell if the agent truly has insight and knowledge or if they sell snake oil.  

As an agent investor in the Midwest I'd be more than happy to discuss markets with you if ever interested.

Cheers!