Thats crazy but such a neat experience.I had a property manager that I was already using in the area and that had proven themselves to be reliable go and check the property out before I bought it.

I want to know if anyone has any recommendations for contractors that are reliable and won't overcharge for their work just because of the area.

You can defer the capital gains tax and enjoy passive and reliable cash flows.

I would work towards either finding a reliable contractor with plenty of referrals ASAP, or doing the rest of the work yourself (if its local). $5500 cant be too much work, youtube will do wonders.

Can you all recommend what's the most reliable method of finding foreclosed properties, including bank and court foreclosed

I usually try to get opinions from two attorneys for State foreclosure laws and two realtors for CMA’s to ensure the investment has a reliable collateral on it to cover the investment with good returns.

New investors, esp out of state, should look for reliable, consistent cash flow and capital preservation.

Can anyone recommend a reliable HVAC company to service (check out system) and possibly do duct cleaning?

I live in the Seattle area so 3.5% down on a multi is still way out of my price range as they go for about 800k and above.My thought was to buy a 2-3 bedroom home in the Tacoma area as I can get in with 3.5% down and still be able to easily commute to my job here in Seattle (cheaper and more reliable than taking the ferry if I were to buy in the Kitsap county area).

That being said, I started with SFR's as well and it still a very reliable way to start and get your "feet wet."