I feel that larger national firms can give you better service, surety of funds and a searchable reputation.The local front; they may move quicker and get more aggressive on lending terms since they are usually only playing in their backyard but it is at a premium.

You really need to dig in to get a firm grasp on your final solution.

if many firms cut even 5 percent of their workforces, I think we have a very different real estate market (less demand and MAYBE more supply)

BUT...if the development is not completely and fully and firmly set, make sure you do not end up like my uncle did.He was in a suburb north of LA. 

@Adam Kay I firmly agree with @Chris Mason here: you need someone who is experienced in investment property lending. 

As long as you go with a reputable firm there should be no surprises provided your rents aren't way under/over market rent and your expenses are in line with market.

It's okay to be neighborly, but when you become friends it's hard to be firm and then you'll get taken advantage of.

That includes realtors, mortgage brokers, banks and brokerage firms.

Your only expenses are typically taxes insurance minor maintenance and maybe a little utility cost if you have a ticketed parking machine, gates , elevators etc.You can find these deals through brokerage firm’s in the areas you are interested in as well as loop net, CREXI, craigslist and driving for dollars.

You may have some success with Thumbtack and Home Advisor, seeing as new firms will align themselves with these services as a way to build up their client base quickly.