One was leased for $5800/m to a credit tenant and the other was a corner space that had a 3 year old HVAC system and ventilation system in the kitchen area already installed. 

You can also search Google and read reviews.

I work in Potomac, MD, and would like to buy a condo or apt that I can easily commute and live in, and then eventually rent out, and then buy another. 

Tried-and-true method.

Join your local chamber of commerce and other organizations and establish relationships. 

People buy where there is opportunity, better weather, and near family and friends. 

I have a buddy who does this for a living on raw land, and he pays for the software and gives us all the data for free.  

I have been investing for 20 plus years and have found a number of good connections at local meetups and here on the BP forums.

My wife and I own a single-family home in a top school district.

Quote from @Mike Klarman: For a guaranteed 10% down program you'll need good credit and 3+ experience but then with closing costs it will be more like 15% and then holding costs and such.