I look forward to getting more involved with this community!

Very few lenders do well in the space due to the risks involved (novelty, rules/regulations, etc...). 

They offer bulk rates which can be useful if you're dealing with a sizable list.PropertyRadar: Apart from skip tracing, this platform offers a suite of tools for real estate professionals, especially for those in the western US.Tips on Other Types of Lists and Marketing to Homeowners:Driving for Dollars: This involves physically driving through neighborhoods, looking for distressed or vacant properties, and then noting the addresses to look up the owners later.Probate Lists: Properties in probate can sometimes be acquired below market value.

Just remember bad opinions that get eyes is still good marketing

This is a really tough question to answer because there's no specific area involved.

If you have multiple properties in a specific state you really should have an attorney draft your lease agreements and start to understand the laws or get a property manager involved to advise on these situations.

According to this if i end up purchasing a house that the agent is involved, he will get his commission.

Definitely get a title company/closing attorney involved. 

Costs involved in cash purchase: purchase price, rehab, commission to both agents (unless off market), insurance, and........?

hi Sean we live in Ontario and have been investing in the us for 7 years. we did a lot of looking but are now settled in investing in toledo and Detroit. the numbers are solid and its the easiest place to keep an eyes on things. remote is possible for sure but things seem to go a bit better with a wee personal touch.