Ask their references lots of questions-if they are happy with their property manager, the references will be glad to sing their praises.2) Ask pointed questions-how do you handle a difficult tenant in [insert specific situations that maybe you have concerns with-like non-payment of rent, disruption of peace, etc.).3) See what sort of property management software they use.4) Look at their management contract right away, give yourself time to comb through it-even bring it to your attorney, if that makes you more comfortable.5) Ask what type of properties they manage.

The list brokers access the county websites and then comb through all the information and create a clean list for you.  

I've been combing through the forums/posts for information, and have also tuned in to a few webinars so far.

This is exactly why I love biggerpockets.com, you have smart experienced guys coming up with creative ideas like Rich, you have smart experienced guys examining those creative ideas with a fine tooth comb and laying out the facts, like Bill, and you have smart experienced guys giving a well reasoned opinion like J.Scott and others here.Kudos to all, really appreciate all of you.Every investment has risk, it's how you manage risk and your own tolerance level for risk that matter to YOU!

Try to commit 5 hours (at least) a week researching various topics of RE investing and spend that time combing through the past forum posts here on BP.

There will always be good deals for those who fine comb the market long enough though.Hope to see you more around the site!

Make sure to go over those leases and rent records with a fine-tooth comb.

Just want to buy right... not sure if combing through the MLS's is the way to go, or if it is worth looking into REO's and stuff like that.

@David AbbateYes I got an initial inspection because he is a friend the fine tooth comb one is tomorrow.

As a house flipper myself I would go look with a fine tooth comb, perform my due diligence and ask him to complete a property disclosure in it.