They are a great person & I wish them the best of luck for future work.However, I'm somehow unable to justify the $25k+ I am expected to pay to them as commission on each $1M invested.If I am researching the market myself, creating comps myself, reviewing each disclosure myself, working with the mortgage lender myself, finding problems in the homes myself -  what is the value add that the agent is bringing to the table that I can't execute myself?

I am looking to buy my first investment property and have heard a lot about  Fort WayneAs an out of state investor, I am looking to connect with investors/agents in the area to build further knowledge on specifics with the markets and hopefully bring business to in the future!

Highly appreciated.Does that mean I can deduct this loss from any rental profit from any of my properties or should it be just deducted from the same property income in the future year?

Your ability to negotiate directly and use cost-efficient strategies clearly paid off with a quick sale.As a Direct Lender, I’d love to explore how we can support your future investment ventures.

Also, if you think rates are coming down and a future refi is part of your strategy, then it's easier and cheaper to refi VA to VA. 

If you ever need anything in the future feel free to reach out.

Some tools give you a glimpse of predicted future performance.

You could also explore HELOCs or cash-out refinances in the future when your income stabilizes.

For any value add project, the primary evaluation is based on the numbers.Provided you have trustworthy teammates for the renovation side and a competent agent on the valuation side, you'll perform no matter the location.It seems your weighing factors that relate more towards long-term investing and where your asset will appreciate the most.In respect to emerging markets, you'll want to use characteristics like population growth, employment growth, safety trends and path of progress.

This avoids probate and ensures a step-up in basis when inherited, reducing future capital gains taxes.No reassessment since ownership doesn’t formally change.