Call some local competitors.

Have you considered dropping by one of your local REIA meetings to see what lenders your peers are using?

I strongly recommend getting involved with your local REI meetup groups so you can work out your pitch with help from other landlords.I hope this doesn't come off the wrong way without tone or facial expressions behind it. 

I’ll also connect with locals through BiggerPockets or Facebook groups for first-hand insights.If visiting isn’t an option, lean on a reliable local team (agents, property managers) to help vet the area.

Hi Jared, I’m a local agent here in Indianapolis and also an investor myself.

Ultimately, it depends on your comfort level with the local regulations and market dynamics.

You might also consider private money loans, local lenders and so forth.

When identifying and working with a property manager long distance, quality and local presence matter most.

would you still create the single LLCs in OH (the state where the flip is in) or open one in my state of residence and JV with the local LLC ?  

Take the time to connect with investor-friendly pros who understand your strategy, and don’t rely solely on pro formas—talk to local investors and analyze real numbers.