There are plenty of other strategies to employ once you have a consistent marketing budget..."

Are there any other agencies you would recommend?

(that training was not available to me, probably because the agency didn't have a clue to how to invest, how to make money or creative financing terms)  An idea that may have merit.......Interview agents. preferable a new agents.Let the agent know what your objective are (to buy, to control, to flip to build your portfolio)Be honest, let the agent know you are serious and that you have the cash or technique to control real estateSign a buyer broker agreement with the agencyIt is important to let them know that you will pay them a fee on unlisted properties that you buy.You need to lay out a plan that will help you and them to put together profitable transactionsOffer to not only pay a commission but you will list with them when you are ready to sell and (this is important) that you will give them a percent of your net profitsBe generous with your agent, offer a gas credit card, cash for giving you expired listing, buy lunch and give them cash from time to time.

This is one of many lower cost options than using the traditional real estate agency.  

I found an article that took a poll on whether or not local real estate agencies should offer gun safety training. 55% said yes, it could be helpful. 32.86% said no, that it should be left to other agencies.

This will help vet those contractors looking to take advantage of folks, in particular since you’re investing from afarFocus on punctuality and communication – did they show up on time, did they return your call/email in a timely fashion, do they keep a well maintained vehicle, do they communicate in a professional mannerVerify IDOnline search of their name and companyReferences with phone numbers, and previous work – call the references, find out the type of work done, does the type of work they’ve done match with what you’re looking forGet a detailed, written scope of work (SOW) along with a detailed, itemized contract – define the payment scheduleHow will the payments be structured –are they asking for money upfront (potential red flag)Hire a licensed, insured contractor that is in good standing with the Better Business Bureau, and the local consumer protection agency; check the license number, insurance policy, and bond.

or....refer them to local LE agency.

He is a self employed mechanic and his wife is an RN.  

I started with my first househack: a duplex in 2005 that now rents for $950/ea, and in next years bought two more SFR that cashflow -> inspired by rich dad/poor dad reading and working construction while finishing an OPS degree at WWU.Operated a seasonal campground, self employed in the off season and just saving pennies like a mad-man while the family grew and happily had to feed more mouths.

Do you have a certain collection agency you turn it over, do you just keep it and consider it toilet paper?