If they've been there 10 years, you have a good idea of how well they take care of the place as what you saw when you viewed it would reflect that.For state laws-google it and you will find a government website with the info.  

The excuse I am always given is that out of state landlords tend to be negligent and want someone local they can hold accountable.

We are active in Waveland, Bay St Louis, Pass Christian, Long Beach, Ocean Springs, Gautier, Pascagoula, and Moss Point (and possibly other water front towns near these locations).As I'm sure most are, I would be interested in speaking with other investors in the area, and would even possibly be open to the idea of partnering for a property or two with the right individual/team. 

I'm a brand new, as green as you can get, have no idea what I'm doing or where to start investor.

I've read that talking to a property management company that is knowledgable in your market is one of the best ways, but I'm looking for a way to get a good idea of market rents on my own when analyzing rental property deals.

The buyer holds "equitable" title, while the seller holds legal title.

I also was going to stop transfer of up front fee's of 1.5%  $1725 while still on hold with of course and out of the Country so called investor.

Frankly, I would be surprised if a real estate agency would want to hold rent properties in the same entity as their brokerage business.

I buy n hold single family homes in C+ hoods in the Dallas area where demand is high.

I’m seeking advice on my next steps in real estate investing and would greatly appreciate your insights.Currently, I work with landlords who use the rental buy-and-hold strategy.