I'm helping a friend who wants to start investing in real estate.

I have friends invested in all different parts of Philly, most with good to great success (good prices, low taxes), but you really have to do A LOT of due diligence and I would not be buying from a wholesaler or a company like New Western if you are new.

A few quick tips:Run your numbers – Flip for a profit by factoring in renovation costs, holding costs, and market trends in the area.Line up financing early – If you're using a VA loan, it's great for long-term holds, but for a flip, hard money or private lenders might fit better.Build your team – Lean on your local contacts (family, friends, or contractors) to be your boots on the ground.

A good friend of mine just helped a client get a duplex in South Philly.

One of the former managers even stole tenants' money order rent payments, rented to friends and family who didn’t meet the minimum requirements, and managed some owners' properties on the side without authorization.I’ve tried to be patient, waiting for them to get things back on track, but the situation has only worsened.

I remember when a close friend of mine bought his first duplex in Philly; the excitement was off the charts.Your idea to pick up the neighboring property is pretty smart, especially with that shared backyard.

I have considered partnerships with a Washington friend who could hold the loan and live there for a year and in return receive partial ownership in the property. 

If not, find an investor-friendly realtor who owns and has bought off-market properties themself. 

It's not unreasonable to want an agent who's proactive and truly has your back.An investor-friendly agent should be more than a door opener..they should be a strategic partner.

I have several friends that have closed hundred plus of transactions and they asked the seller when do they want to close.