You might want to interview a few agents if you want to go that route.

I got the BP Books and videos, they are great, especially the buy and hold interviews.  

If you've got $500k sitting in the bank you can afford the risk, but the low price range of the properties you're looking at tells me that's probably not the case (nor is it for most investors) because otherwise you'd be flipping locally.All you have to do is read some horror stories from investors who had a bad experience with a turn-key provider to see how easily this kind of investment can go south.For example, what if the contractor team goes AWOL and suddenly the deal requires you taking a week off of work to fly out to the property and interview new contractors to get the deal going again?

Even if your letter is received your still going to have to interview them on the phone.  

My purpose for pursuing real estate investment is 1) to develop a form of passive income to advance my plans for early retirement and create long-term financial stability, 2) to help preserve some of my family homes while putting them to good use, 3) to develop a second job/income to support my doctoral program and avoid student loan debt (should I not get total funding).I found BP after listening to an interview with Josh Dorkin on Joshua Sheats’ podcast, Radical Personal Finance (episode 261).

Brad contact Jed at acpainc.com I use him for my other business.He's great I've interviewed a few companies and he knows his stuff.

Ask to view other work he has in progress and then 'make your way' over to the owner during that visit or later to do a simple interview with them to get the real scoop in regards to the contractors performance.  

Hi Jon,I've also been on the hunt and interviewed Steve Pelner of Padgett Business Services, Lakeville office.

I even use Skype and TeamViewer to communicate with clients so I'd highly recommend looking for one of the best with great references that interviews well with you.So look for someone you can connect with that works out for your situation.Feel free to ask here if you have questions

I've been listening to every bigger pockets podcast every morning on my way to work and I've definitely learned a lot so a big big thank you to Josh and Brandon for doing the interviews.