P.S; We live in Wilmington NC so both markets would be "long distance" P.S.P.S there are no reasonably priced multi family properties local to us.

I believe that you don't get returns (failed to deliver) with bulk mailers so you don't know which addresses are bad.That's the simple stuff.My advice is to do various mailings that you or some prepares locally, that go out immediately, using 1st class postage.

Consult your local CPA to calculate accurately and minimize your tax liability.

Hey BP, I'm a local broker and investor.

It’s great that you’re looking to connect with local investors—it’s always helpful to learn from others’ experiences as you get started.As someone new to investing, one thing to consider is not limiting yourself to your immediate area.

Can be local or not...

well if I ever make it to the Smokies to see what the draw is  I will rent a condo then :)  I am just guess but I suspect folks that go there want to be in the woods and hear the birds and maybe some local mtn views etc.. or some sort of privacy they never get at home out east were there is not very much public lands close to where they live in the big city. ????

We get granite for around $40/ft installed from a local shop. 

Please do this first:  contact the local Housing Authority office in your market area and obtain the landlord package.

Otherwise, the tenant will make excuse after excuse to buy more time as they fall further and further behind.To find an attorney, suggest you visit your local court and lookup the landlord-tenant docket to ID attorneys with the most cases.