This has really given us a feeling of momentum to pursue real estate investing (rentals, flipping etc.)We recently came across a home via word of mouth that an older women has really let her house go (disrepair) and she is wanting to get out of the house as-is. 

I've discovered that:They only work with industrial and/or retail (and seem curious/surprised why I'm investigating apartments)They are the listing agents for properties in the area (it is a sellers market where I live).Being a first time investor, I'd like to have a trusted professional in my corner; using a listing agent (at least to me) represents a conflict of interest.Should I be cold calling firms outside of my immediate locale, such as major cities nearby (or national)? 

The important point here is that this tale begins at a time with conditions that were exceptional within the long history of the nation.

Women generally get more informal social training in this.

Here's the problem, I'm looking to buy(upstate NY)  on owner financing and re-sell using owner financing,  A New York City Lawyer told me that I can't do that, I must first buy it outright, then I can sell It on owner financing can't have two mtg's on a property, Is that a New York or National law?

I have some experience, having knocked down a drive through location and replaced it with a national food service company in a nice town and then also purchasing a historic bank building and leasing it out as office space. 

I am doing everything virtual for now while I travel with the military, so honestly any title company thats works nation wide would be good.

The law came about from VAWA (Violence against women act,  a federal law) as it is called allows the victim of Domestic abuse or stalking to end a lease. 

National Real Estate Insurance Group. 

Many national real estate offices will train you to become a realtor.