A good PM can refer you to top sales agents in the market, they can tell you what type of rentals are in demand, they can tell you which areas are best for investments, and they can cross-check what the sales agent tells you about specific properties.Remember: cheaper doesn't mean you'll make more money.Start by going to www.narpm.org to search their directory of managers.

Just be sure to check local regulations because some spots are cracking down on STRs.

Use services that can validate the authenticity of documents and employment history.Require Detailed Applications: Ensure that the rental application captures comprehensive information, making it harder for fraudulent applicants to provide fake details.Conduct In-Person Interviews: Meeting applicants in person can provide additional insights into the authenticity of their application and allows you to ask follow-up questions based on the details they've provided.Utilize Professional Screening Services: Professional tenant screening services are invaluable for conducting background checks, credit checks, and criminal history checks.

Here are a few suggestions on how you can maximize the wealth of information available: Check out the blogs and podcasts, or take advantage of the search feature (magnifying glass).

We consider background checks and credit checks only good for 60 days. 

Check it out here: https://get.biggerpockets.com/momentum2025/

It seems like I need to check further away from the DMV area.My feelings are if you want “cash flow” you should buy a bond (I really like the tips rate right now) there is next to no reason to buy real estate for cash flow, if you are going to buy you should buy with appreciation in mind, which is not to say that’s the route I’d go, I’ve been liquidating properties to put in stocks and money market funds over the last few years and u just did the math and I’ve come out well ahead, but just to say there are arguments for stocks/bonds, there are arguments for levered appreciation, but the cap rates pretty much anywhere aren’t worth it vs an inflation protected bond, especially since a 3/rd of inflation is real estate anywhere, you could get “cash flow” and inflation protection much easier through a tips.

Quote from @Jayme Currie: Hi Matt,Would definitely be interested in checking out the property!

Check with an SEC attorney to learn where this line is drawn.

We are in the top 10 fastest growing big cities right now, so families and singles are constantly flying in to check out the area.Raleigh allows short term rentals if you apply for a license.