If you aren't sure who to choose from, ask each of them for a meeting/consultation to break down your goals, the market, and the acquisition process.Once you've selected one, have them draft the offer for you and take it from there.The best agents are responsive, knowledgeable on the local market, have a strong supporting team (i.e. lenders, title, inspectors, title, etc.), and know how to put together a deal.As @Michael K Gallagher mentioned, you'd want to clarify whether or not your agent is also representing the seller.

Being out of state, you will want an agent who has good relationships with reliable inspectors, title companies, contractors, property managers, lenders, wholesalers, insurance agents, other RE agents, etc.

It doesn't matter, just choose one and use it.3) This is just about finding a good local real estate photographer and inspector.

A reputable home inspector would be able to point you in the right direction. 

I ALWAYS recommend a buyer attend the inspection and walk around with the inspector.

Of course, you can hire a local inspector to confirm work is done before final payment, but that all requires some pretty decent process management.

Seller accepted my very low offer because the prior buyer walked away when the inspector informed him the septic was corroded.

They will likely also need to close any access points to satisfy city inspectors that the now capped chimney cannot be used to "vent" anything in the future.You will likely want a demo team that is much cheaper to do the actual demo and haul off, but you need either the mason or an engineer to stipulate how far down they can/should demo, while leaving enough room for the cap to be effective and maintain any structural rigidity into the future to not create more issues.Long story longer, I would call more licensed, insured contractors.  

Also, looking for local recommendations for home inspectors.

Ask your home inspector questions.