Ideally, 1 person would come in and make us an offer, but we'd probably get a better price if we sold them to individuals who specialize collecting in the different areas.

You're busy, "cheap" midwest houses are not what you want, invest in quality product (A/B neighborhoods), this will reduce your risk.

You get some renovation money with the special financing available for owner occupants. 

So that *could* change what kind of loan product you need.2.)

The best realtor for small product is Erin Ward with Keller Williams.

With Real if I brought in a direct agent, I'd get some revenue share only for their first year of production, then it disappears. 

Pay close attention to the timelines- You have 60 days to pick out a property and then 6 months to close. there are 1031 companies who specialize in that and hold the proceeds of the first while waiting fir the 2nd to close. 

Thanks, AndrewIf you're still looking, I have an amazing insurance agent with Prime Insurance, specializing in everything real estate related.

I am in the Portland, Oregon market and right now I specialize mobile homes.

From experience I noticed that a lot of people may not be interested in an item/product/service at a time but are willing to entertain a conversation as long as you are upfront.