After a few discussions with Steve Cook (a well-respected RE analyst who gave a great presentation at the Summit), we decided to take a look at Milwaukee.During our first investigative trip up to Milwaukee, we met up with two other BP members that we'd never met in person -- James Gefke and Emilio Ramirez.

If you have anything that looks odd, they can investigate it.

(investigator trick)Secretary of State, like Jerry mentioned has at least an address of the registered agent.

We also have a placement fee which pays for the advertising, screening, showing the unit, completing a back ground investigation on the tenant, taking move in pictures, drafting the lease, and explaining the process to the tenants.

Do the walkthrus with your "free" quoters, once you get the bids and you've investigated and have made a final decision, don't sign any contract before materials are listed, how long before job completion and include in their contract NOTHING is DONE without discussion with you and you get a change order or any changes! 

I am not sure about yours so I would recommend investigating that further.The legality of it aside you are not going to have any luck finding agents who would be willing to work with you.

Some people are telling me to just buy with 5% down as owner occupant and just rent out the units anyways, since is my first property the bank wont investigate as long as payments are made on time.

I found at least two within the last couple of weeks that show they are under investigation by the state for unlicensed activities.

My plan is to investigate what I can do now.

There are good deals but seems like you have to really investigate them.