I use a local company for background checks and all that kind of stuff.

Has anyone ever use them or is there another company recommended?

Experienced REI pro looking for meetup groups in Austin or more preferably, Round Rock, Texas.

And at the end of the lease, any bills tied to the house (ie if they don't pay, you have to), get a copy of the final statement to show it was paid in full before you return the deposit.My water company won't let the tenant put the bill in their name, so I send them the bill every 3 months (it is quarterly) and they add it to their rent.When the next tenant goes to move in, get proof that all utilities are in their name before you hand over the keys.

Agree most Realtors are not real estate investors themselves, number 1.Additionally, your Realtor may have a different property type they like to invest in or prefer to have more paid off properties than leveraged properties.You will know you are working with a true advocate and fiduciary if they negotiate hard for you and advise you not to get into or stay in skinny or low profit deals.To Your Success!

Another is McDonalds who is a RE company that happens to sell hamburgers.

Most of our clients prefer the middle/southern part of the country because the price points are much easier and the laws are landlord friendly. 

Thank you for your input. build new just ask any commercial banker what they prefer. renovation or ground up. why do you think new construction is easier to finance? 

You also need to at least talk to the electric and gas company to find out their processes. 

Multiple, billion dollar companies are investing heavy in our area, such as Intel, Google, and Amazon.