The information contained in this post is not to be relied upon.

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).

@Tannia CastroRecommend exploring as many sources as possible to get referrals AND cross-reference them to get as much accurate information as possible.Check out NARPM.com, BP’s Property Manager Finder (BiggerPockets: The Real Estate Investing Social Network), etc.Also, encourage you to learn from the mistakes of others - by reading posts here on BiggerPockets about owners not having their expectations met by their current Property Management Company.

Being specific about geography, price points, willingness to take as is properties, speed of decision making and closing, whether you are a cash buyer or not, property specs....that will go a long way in your brand as a good match for an agent.

She informed me that she & her sisters plan to take care of the rent so he still has the home when he gets out of the hospital. 

They also appreciate honesty and transparency so they can make decisions fast without any surprises.Some of the top skills that you can focus on are:Comping: Knowing your comps inside out is a must.Negotiation: Being able to connect with sellers and strike a good deal is huge.Networking: Relationships with buyers, agents, and other wholesalers are invaluable.Also, Get to know your local market being able to talk the talk in your area will help a lot.

The information contained in this post is not to be relied upon.

Our lender has informed us that we need 12 months of rental history to use the actual rent for financing purposes, or we must rely on the appraiser's fair market short term rental value.

This not only preserves the value of your investment but also enhances its profitability over time.Also, I'd like to emphasize the importance of understanding the local market dynamics, which will help you make informed decisions about where to buy, what to buy, and at what price.

@Bridget HustonWelcome to the community and be ready for a huge amount of information at your finger tips.