I found the house on Zillow and ended up going through an agent.

For example, I met an agent who is managing an Airbnb with a similar situation.

I'd have an agent run comps and see if they are offering a fair amount.

One of my commercial RE agent friends  here moved out there. 

This strategy aligns well with the buy-and-hold model.Leverage Local Expertise: Partner with professionals like real estate agents familiar with rental markets and property managers who understand tenant needs.

I see agents and wholesalers trying to sell properties that are supposedly wholesale, but they sell at retail after it's marked up so much.

Although with the NAR settlement you may need your RE agent to negotiate that in. 

Quote from @Zongfu Li: An agent named Mathew Dial contacted me for loan opportunity and told me how flexible and how easy they can provide bridge loan lending and conventional lender.

I bought a 3/2.00 home in Tampa, FL in April 2022 for $245k at a 4.75% interest rate, I still owe $210K on the loan, my RE agent thinks it could sell for $280k ($70k in equity).

Real estate agents, property managers, and contractors who specialize in your target market can save you time and money in the long run.