We already have an appointment?!? 

I would be setting up that appointment to get out there and look at investment properties with you.

This is a great time to set up an appointment with your tax professional- there are some great options for reducing tax owed on flip income, but there is less that can be done after the property is sold. 

So I look at the first cold call as a way not to sell but to break the ice, and try to get an appointment or ask if I can follow up with them at a later date in the future.

He probably has an unlicensed assistant for paperwork, setting appointments and putting listings on the MLS.  

If you don't do your research beforehand, it may take a few days to secure an appointment, unless you call every single tradesman in the area.

Good luck when you're down here and make sure to call the city planner to see if they are accepting in-person appointments right now during COVID.

Theyve lost their jobs because their son got sick and they had to take him to too many appointments for a specialist out of state.

Get the latest edition of Nolo Landlords Tax Guide book and read it (http://store.nolo.com/products/every-landlords-tax-deduction-guide-dell.html) - regardless which route you chose (plus you'll know more than many CPAs about the subject).

As @Justin Thorpe correctly pointed out I am self appointed economic expert!