Currently working on networking and building a team of reliable professionals to work with over the coming years.I have been interested in Real Estate Investing for the past few years, but only recently got the bug and really started getting into it.

If he/she doesn't accept, don't buy, but if you persuade them that any professional investor will look at the same numbers, that is how you get good deals...and then a loan originator like me or Gregory or Scott, can finance it for you. 

Always respond professionally without emotion.

@Anh Le    I'm not trying to give you a hard time, but this is exactly why you need a real estate professional representing you.I can tell you without even looking that a house priced at $160K to $170K will never be a good rental property.

I know this is a tall order to fill but just wanted to hear what any of you professionals have to say. 

Often I have seen out of state Investors enlist the assistance of a real estate professional who knows the area and properties and can offer their expert advice including videos pointing out both positives and negative but again not without having an inspection contingency as part of the agreement. 

You should have a professional do your taxes.

I understand you want the opinion of other investors, but ALL legal questions should be referred to a qualified legal professional in the field that covers your query. 

One of the huge exceptions is experienced RE professionals (investors, mortgage brokers, etc), they tend to get what agents will get them. 

I am 41 and was in your shoes, professionally, a decade ago.