We find our multi-unit prospects through word of mouth (networking) or from brokers who know what types properties fit our profile.4- Should I only be looking in the state I live in? 

Word of mouth works too.

I assume word of mouth may get you from tenant to tenant but you have lost the connection with the last tenant you might see if there is a contact you can revive there.

I have  customers on that block , all word of mouth .

You can hold a buyer seminar, sit an open house and collect names from unrepresented buyers (if the seller lets you), word of mouth, flyers on car windows or apartment doors, mailers to renters such as apartments.

Tell people what you do, this was a word of mouth deal, I was contacted because he knew I was one of those “we buy houses” people.Thoughts, comments or questions?

Their investor base grows organically by word-of-mouth and that is a slow process.

I also use word of mouth heavily and have minions all over the city spotting vacant properties for me.

More options too for entry and exit.Ballpark pricing in areas foreign to me (especially given my market and its pricing) just means I'd end up with my foot in my mouth.

How much happier are you being in control of your own destiny, working for yourself etc?