Visit, explore these place and then narrow it down.

JackieIs there any way they can go and visit the current PM and also meet the new PM, or even ask the new PM to go by the office of the current PM to see if they can see if they are still in business?

My vote is invest in other markets where the money makes sense and then take that profit to visit whenever you like. 

Here is my simple Top 5:1.Review the market – Understand the trends and conditions in the area.2.Analyze the property and the numbers – Ensure the deal makes financial sense.3.Visit the property – There’s no substitute for seeing it firsthand.4.Meet the team – Whether it’s your property manager, builder, or contractor, relationships matter.5.Complete inspections and appraisals – These protect you from costly surprises.If all these boxes are checked and the numbers work for your goals, then it’s likely a solid deal.

You might also meet title agents who have resources on, say, foreclosures or probates…and might recommend lenders who actually lend on more difficult projects (as the title companies also know which lenders can close and which are difficult).I also go visit open houses to see what sorts of finish to put on my renovations or to look for the next house or area in which to purchase.  

However, if you feel you need their input earlier, you could offer to pay for their visit to walk the property with you pre-inspection.

(My next visit being Jan 22 - Feb 4)My full time job... 

I generally recommend if you're not going to buy a property in the city/market where you currently live, the next best place to look is where you have family (and presumably a place that you'll visit relatively often and easily).What is your price point and are you looking for turn-key properties or something along the lines of a "fixer upper", assuming you buy in Peoria or a similar priced Midwest market?

It kind of depends on the type of properties you're looking for funding on.

Search the forums here for these kinds of stories from landlords.