But as I've read more about the process, including a BP published book by Brian Green 'Long Distance Investing', I'm wondering if not only is a RE agent not needed for me, but is likely to work against my favor.Why? 

Take a look at BP's blog where new articles are published every day: https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog4.

Give them a call and just ask them if the information is published in the newspaper.

Take a look at BP's blog where new articles are published every day: https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog4.

Take a look at BP's blog where new articles are published every day: https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog4.

The few individuals investing in real property in a small way were few and not organized into any recognizable grouping.In 1957 Bill Nickerson’s book “How I Turned $1,000 into One Million in Real Estate in My Spare Time” was published.  

Take a look at BP's blog where new articles are published every day: https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog4.

Take a look at BP's blog where new articles are published every day: https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog4.

HUD publishes the Median Fair Market Rent on their web site for the entire country.

Hello Faris,Any book published by Bigger Pockets is a great start.