Lenders that can do either, will generally start with soft pull to avoid having you end up in "trigger lead pool".You really didn't even need to get pre-qualified with anyone to a get rate and fee quote.

Stay disciplined and avoid rushing into deals without thorough due diligence.Resources for InvestorsIf you’re new to investing in distressed properties or looking to expand your portfolio, consider leveraging resources like:Local Realtors: Realtors specializing in distressed properties can assist in locating off-market deals and navigating complex transactions.Community Forums: Attend a local investor meetup or join online forums for the Phoenix market.Educational Tools: Search out webinars, workshops, or courses on investing in distressed properties.Final ThoughtsThe distressed property market in Phoenix is creating some excellent potential for the right investors willing to go the extra mile necessary to take on strategic risks associated with this category of real estate.

And while it is not your job to be an expert loan officer, it certainly helps to avoid these situations. 

Emphasize how this arrangement could work to their benefit, offering steady income, avoiding a traditional sale process, and giving them the freedom to move forward with their plans such as buying that sailboat and sailing around the world.If they ultimately decide they’re not interested in selling, you’re still in a great position to continue your search and buy your own property in the near future.

For example, avoid wasting time comparing new construction with sun-soaked windows to basement units with stained drop ceilings.

Avoiding accessive PM fees (personally I recommend most people self-manage)These will eat away at your ROI.

However, alternatives like a Self-Directed IRA (SDIRA), a 60-Day Rollover, or a Roth IRA Conversion can help you avoid penalties.A SDIRA allows you to invest directly in real estate while maintaining the tax advantages of your IRA.

Then I’d avoid capital gains tax in Massachusetts?

But you have to purchase new investment property of at least as much as your net sale to avoid tax. 

I'm getting up there in age and feel like I'm getting a late start, so I'm looking to avoid any unnecessary steps along the way.