I work with Steadily as an independent insurance agent and haven't had issues.Did you e-sign your initial application?  

I’m a 41-year-old father of six who loves the Lord and is driven by a desire to build a better future for my family through real estate.I own a small tile installation business, am a certified insurance agent, and am currently in the process of obtaining my real estate license.

Mine was also out of state, in a town I’d never visited, and I relied heavily on videos from my agent.This sounds like a tough first deal, but it seems like you have some capital on the side, which will be useful as you face the upcoming challenges and learn from those expensive early mistakes.Regarding the subject of this post, “help me adjust my expectations,” I’d recommend assuming that; repairs will cost twice as much as you estimate, maintenance and vacancy rates will likely double from your initial projections, there’s a very real chance you may lose money on this deal.That said, there are ways to mitigate these risks by:- Keep asking questions here on BP and connecting with local experts- Stay proactive and communicative with your agent and property manager.And remember “Inspect what you expect.”Im not trying to discourage you but to help reset your expectations.

Not all agents can do that.

Been looking into Birmingham and talking to agents.

Zillow / Internet, agents, off market, driving for dollars?

I also am a member of the International Real Estate Federation, and can connect you with agents who are able to help with your purchase.  

Most people who advertise credit repair are just an agent for the real company that does the repair. 

This team consists of an Investor Focused Agent, Lender, Contractor, and PM.Read this article on the "core 4".

Referrals from local investors on BiggerPockets can be a great resource. https://www.biggerpockets.com/business/finder/agents@Mark Ainley sounds like a great person to link up with!