I've taken over my fathers rental properties and need some insight on some money saving tips on upgrades....

Go and meet the wholesaler or R/E pro in person and see if they pass your smell test.

Your time here will be well spent.Since you expressed an interest in rentals, I added three links below for your review.https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2015/03/27/financing-options-rental-property-guide/ (financing options for rentals)http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/01/04/how-to-rent-your-house/ (house rental guide)http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/02/22/buying-rental-property/ (how to buy a rental property)Now that you have made the move, below are some links that will help with the navigation of the site. http://www.biggerpockets.com/startherehttp://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSetting up Keyword AlertsHow to Use @Mentions on BiggerPocketshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/ruleshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/inviteshttps://www.udemy.com/biggerpockets-real-estate-investing-course/ (video with 64 lectures and approx 6hrs of material)https://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investing (Ultimate beginner's guide to REI)Before your 1st purchase, please ensure you visit the below link for some tips.https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2014/12/19/real-estate-investing-success-smart-tips/REI books suggested by BPershttps://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2015/11/13/7-real-estate-books-beginner-investors/ (7 absolute must read books for beginner REIs)http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/04/14/best-real-estate-books/?

What are some good tips to get the conversation rolling during a cold call?

You will network with people who offer tips on refinancing, good books, effective classes, ect.

Tip: midgrade and durable wins the race unless you have a very high end rental in my view...

Brenda E.

Hi RyanCongratulations on passing the r/e exam.  

Waste of time for an agent to anything more than put you on their Top Producer daily e mails .Which if you don't know what top producer e mails are you should start there .. most agents will do this for you over the phone.. it will give you an e mail each morning of new listings that meet your criterion.  

Brandon if you name, e-mail and phone number I will send you the details of the national insurance group we use.