I would do this first before engaging an agent unless you are extremely active.

One key tip as you begin is to connect with local investors who are active in the markets you're considering.

Active?

The process is very involved as you'll have to navigate pre-construction activities that involve architectural plans and approval from the city and then the construction activities (Shovel to soil) take anywhere from 5-9 months depending on how much your building. 

Since Joe is not a registered lender, Joe is not held to the same standards as a lender and the sale could be a wreckless and poor activity by the bank putting Bob in that situation.

That way you know they are active in the BP community!

Calling the appraiser to see what you can do to push it up a "C-Level" would be smart before doing any reno also, might only need a few things to make it far more valuable in the eyes of the bank.I've heard of a tactic for figuring out demand, which is to put up a dummy or coming soon listing on facebook marketplace and see the amount of activity you get on it. 

In 2019 i only had handful of unbooked nights for the year and the area was active the entire year (there was no huge off season).  

I am long but I also do fix and flips actively and consistently.

Our clients are very active in buying pre-foreclosures.