*Note* In NJ I will qualify for grants up to 22k to contribute at closing- In PA it would be closer to 10k (Money leaves my pocket at closing)I’m open to all ideas and advice as I’m going to get started this year, sooner rather than later.

Quote from @Beth Johnson: @Marina Wong No. we just charge the servicing set-up fee at close.

Thanks,Jake For unemployment data and population growth, government sources like the Bureau of Labor Statistics and Census Bureau are reliable and up-to-date.

So while I will reach out, follow up, etc., leaving it primarily to the platform's messaging system or texts has worked out so far, reserving direct phone contact for requests or emergencies (which saves time).

I spent a decade in advertising, before founding and running a custom wood shop for another decade, so 'm pretty good at the self-promotion.I agree with you that the more gorilla approach would be most effective and that's actually what i've been doing – calling RE agents in my service area with active listings, introducing myself to property managers and leasing agents...To answer your question, I will have to handle the work myself for 6-12 months to build out the SOPs and field service management systems, but I have a lot of relationships for those looking to "do the work".I'll check out the meet up and would love to grab a cup of coffee, I'll shoot you an email.

Quote from @Collin Hays: I suspect that the Smokies is your best choice, simply because it is a year-round destination. 

I really believe in my hometown and have a good grasp on it so up until now- I have simple bought whatever I could as soon as the bank would give me a mortgage.

Looking at the numbers today (keep me honest), I believe you can still find deals with 5-6% yield (current rental state) and hope that it goes up.

Hope you meet up with great agent with good information.

@Robert Gorra - I've had a similar experience where I've had a really hard time with getting GC's to even give me an estimate, and the few that have have been way overpriced (ie, they want me to put in $20k of cabinets in a budget flip) or have had their prices go up by about 40% and still not give me a firm price when I try to nail down the scope of work.