Would a real estate agent or lawyer be a good start to conversations about the area?

Kevin,I am an investor friendly agent in Bellingham.

I'm a real estate agent in Redding, CA, as well as a general contractor.

Financing OptionsAnalyze potential properties for house hacking.Assemble a team of professionals, including a real estate agent, mortgage broker, and possibly a property manager.

Go work for a property management company as an on-site cleaner, handyman, leasing agent, whatever.

It sounds like the problem may be with the Assessor's office and not the settlement agent. 

But, the one person who does want to sell, saves $20,000 in real estate agent fees along with $10,000 in repairs and saves the uncertainty of how long it will take to sell on the MLS.He then fixes up the property and sells it and makes maybe $30,000 and sends out another mailer that costs $1 a piece to send out.

I am an experienced real estate agent/investor based out of Columbus, OH, but spend part of my time at a family house in Ellicottville, NY.

I've spoken with several lenders and agents over the last month and have locked in some contacts.

Raleigh NC agent here.