Currently working as a digital marketing director for an agency and saving up some investment seed money to get started. 

For example, selling up and moving is more expensive as you have estate agency and legal fees to pay.

Lots of history combined with new culture create a niche in rehabbing, big federal and state agencies here, large corporate headquarter presence, active entrepreneurs ....and my favorite (as far as living), mild weather with all four seasons:) @Trevor Ewen "jump" into Richmond

@Eric Mulhern I'd investigate her (even just google her) and find out her problem.PS I'd drop the vernacular ("double closing") when dealing with an Official Agency;-)

I just retired from owning insurance agency for 28 years in Texas.  

hi david. doing a county records search is a good idea. you can also check for any foreclosure proceedings and such while you are there. the absolute fastest way to find the bank that holds the property is to call the local treasurers or tax authority office. someone is paying the taxes, ask who. most of the time, the bank will either pay them themselves or use an escrow agency to do it such as core logic. if that is the case, then call the escrow agent and see if they will give you that information. sometimes they will, and other times they won't. good luck

There are others, some of the credit reporting agencies have similar services.

The buyer's bank works with an independent appraisal agency, who then facilitates the assignment of an appraiser.  

If not then rinse and repeat at a different real estate agency until they do.   

Sign an agency relationship agreement just like most realtors insist.