@John Faulk Jr if the goal is to ultimately purchase a property in a market outside of your own, I would strongly suggest working with a local realtor in whatever market(s) you are considering.

Make sure to connect with local lenders and brokers, as it's beneficial for achieving your real estate goals.

We work with a lot of out-of-state investors who are having a hard time finding deals in their local market. 

Usually a smaller, local, community lender will be the best route. 

Attend local real estate networking events, meetups, and seminars to connect with professionals who have firsthand knowledge of the area and can provide valuable insights.

3) Check out some of the local meetups that you can find in this forum!

I ended up hiring a local attorney.

Portfolio loan through a local bank that we have a good relationship with.

I am getting ready to execute on a direct mail marketing campaign for off market properties to zip codes in the greater Milwaukee, WI market after reading, listening, and watching Jerry Norton, Pace Morby, and many other local investors.

According to the local airport, this location is one of the top tourist destinations by visitors in the US.