I was also kinda new in renting independent apartments (been living in basements for the past two years, where the relationship with the landlords is always been very close) and so I did fell for it. 

I've done Google searches, searched Bigger Pockets, called local big name insurers, and independent agents.

Now granted, Cheyenne is not Casper but the economies are not independent either.

Do you want to work to pay off a nice house near the beach or do you want to invest so you can be financially independent?

If engage an independent national broker like myself who represents several different companies in all 50 State we can search for the most cost effective solution on your behalf.  

Placing my license with an Independant Broker seems easier and quicker for now.

The buying and renovating will give you the confidence to act independently of your team without the pressure of deciding whether you've made enough money for it to be a 'profitable flip'.

I have an interest in both rental properties as well as flipping, but ultimately my goal in life is to pursue my dream as an independent filmmaker and I believe real estate is the optimal path to take in realizing that ambition.  

There are VA's out there that specialize in the Real Estate industry and you will be hiring them as an independent contractor.

I am specifically interested in single and multi-families in Yakima, WA, and possibly some live-in flip type deals in the greater Seattle area.I am fortunate enough to love my day job, but see it as a great vehicle for building a real estate portfolio that allows my wife and I the joys and freedoms of financial independence.