Just wanted to introduce myself.My name is Ariel, I am 32 years old (this Thursday), and I am making my first steps as a real estate investor.As I live abroad, most if not all of my work would be remote, and right now I am focusing on Jacksonville, FL.My main goal for this year is to fix and flip  at least 2 SF's properties, and for the next few years to increase this number, maybe do some MF, and possibly to also BRRR when I raise enough of my own capital.At the moment, my biggest challenge is the fact that I am remote, so I could use some help from a local realtor or management company.It's so amazing to know this community  exists, and I am thrilled to actually take part in it

Generally local agents have one purpose, to sell.

Charleston etc. is that folks there are HIGHLY dependent on local attorneys to do their paper work/ escrow functions prep deeds etc etc. 

I have umbrella insurance under my personal names currently so I'm wondering if the umbrella insurance would cover me in the event of some liabilityQuestions:- Am I better off keeping the rentals in my name since I have umbrella insurance?

It would be local for you.  

From digging into real time market data and calcualting cash flow.. to literally driving for dollars, you want someone with an incredible network of pros who can unearth leads (probate attorneys, divorce attorneys, local fix and flip circles) that might connect you with a ready buyer or flud tenant.

You can also search for local FB groups that specialize in longer term stays.

Go to BUILD YOUR TEAM at the top of the screen and look for local investors or meetups in your area.

@William Taylor so many options...Use your RE knowledge to: WholesaleFind rental deals to sell to investors locally or here on BPStart leveraging your personal contacts to build your sales businessFind a motivated seller willing to do seller financing:- Move in worst room or basement, rent out all the other rooms for max cashflow- You could even live in the basement and STR the rest of the house

its genius really.. most bird dogs work for locals on a performance basis and don't have to pay the investor to bring them deals..