Danny Chan: I have MLS access in San Diego.

However, they will likely be entry level (7-10/hr.)You would be much better served working with a smaller office or even an individual who will not only value your experience, but also see your work first hand and therefore be able to expand your responsibilities (and pay) as you add value to their business.

While they can also give you bank and CMBS quotes, a correspondent mortgage banker is typically the only source that you can go to for access to loans from life insurance companies and the government agencies (Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and FHA).  

I remember reading over the summer that the census is going to introduce a way for developers (an API) to access the data directly.

However Iwas warned that in the even of an eviction, if the tenant has access to owners bank account and the tenant deposits money after eveiction has been filed, it would stop eviction and cost me more money.

Manuel Acuna and Steve Babiak, I will see what I can do about getting you all access to the spreadsheet.

If you are basing a purchase price mainly on the income approach, then having access to a couple of years of P & L statements are absolutely critical.The gross rental income will include your vacancy rate.

Look for the ones advertising aggressively on Craigslist... we are currently filing papers to make me his unlicensed assistant which will give me realtor-level access to the MLS.

Take a walk through of the house as to access repairs, upgrades, etc.Pics, curb appeal, neighborhood (location), neighbors, etc...How is the agent's affect and their knowledge of the listing home?

These would include college towns and cities where either industry is expanding or tourism is increasing.