I am trying to find a reputable realtor / agent who will help me place tenants, but also be able to help with semi-annual / annual walkthroughs (for a fee of course).

Thanks Hi Karolina, I meant to comment on your previous mixed use post, provided 50%+ residential and 85% occupancy should be several reputable lenders that can provide workable terms. 

This is true but 1) the problems in LA has extends beyond the city's core and 2) the city's core is essential for the city's reputation, which in LA has nosedived which will make it harder to lure in new companies or even keep ones there which are considering moving.

Your competence will ultimately drive your reputation.  

My agent is from a reputable firm (KW).

Options may include traditional mortgages, private lenders, partnerships, or even self-directed IRAs.Calculate all potential costs including property acquisition, renovations, property management fees, taxes, and maintenance.Property Selection and Due Diligence:Use your local team to scout properties that match your investment criteria.Conduct thorough due diligence including property inspections, financial analysis, and reviewing rent comparables (rental rates in the area).Make Offers and Negotiate:Submit offers based on your research and due diligence.Negotiate terms that are favorable to your investment goals, taking into account potential repairs or improvements needed.Close the Deal:Once your offer is accepted, work with your local team to complete all necessary paperwork and close the transaction.Ensure all legal aspects are handled properly, including title searches and property inspections.Manage Property Remotely:Hire a reputable property management company to handle day-to-day operations such as tenant screenings, rent collection, maintenance, and emergency repairs.Establish clear communication channels and expectations with your property manager.Monitor and Adjust:Regularly review your investment performance and financial metrics (cash flow, occupancy rates, expenses).Stay informed about market trends and adjust your strategy as needed to optimize returns or mitigate risks.Long-Term Strategy and Growth:Evaluate opportunities for portfolio expansion or diversification in the same or different markets.Continuously educate yourself on real estate investing best practices and market dynamics to make informed decisions.By following these steps diligently and leveraging local expertise, you can effectively navigate the complexities of out-of-state real estate investing and build a successful portfolio over time. 

The best sponsors build their reputations and investor base on long-term performance and trust.

I have an investor savvy real estate agent, a contractor with references and a good reputation, a number-crunching account as a husband.

Here is a question, would the radio show hosts bet their reputation on someone that was completely out to lunch?

The biggest drawback I am having is calculating cost for repairs & finding a reputable contractor for a fair price - I know nothing about renovations right now.